IT News
Imphal, Mar 17:
Discontentment continues to mount as residents vehemently oppose the recent arrest of three Pambei-led United National Liberation Front (UNLF) cadres by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Last night, the protest reached a significant milestone as approximately 300 Meira Paibis organized a torch rally from Kwakeithel to Keishampat junction in Imphal. Their central demand remains the immediate release of the detained UNLF (P) members, a call that resonated loudly throughout the demonstration.
Upon reaching Keishampat Junction, the Meira Paibis voiced their dissatisfaction through impassioned slogans such as “Respect Peace Talks,” “Combat Illegal Immigration,” and “Free the three detainees held by NIA without delay.” These chants echoed through the streets, underscoring the deep-seated frustration within the community regarding the perceived injustice of the arrests.
One protester articulated the sentiment that the detained cadres should be treated as civilians, especially given the existing peace agreement with the Pambei-led UNLF group. Her impassioned plea to the government struck a chord with many, highlighting concerns about the safety of civilians amidst such arrests. She emphasized, “Our peaceful protest aims to urge the Government to release these three individuals. If the Government continues to target groups involved in peace talks, what implications will this have on the safety of the general public, particularly civilians?” Her concerns underscored the gravity of the situation, urging authorities to reconsider their actions and halt such arrests altogether.
Among those apprehended by the NIA is Thokchom Thoiba, the army chief of the Pambei-led UNLF group. The NIA has detained them for a 10-day period, from March 13 to March 23, 2024. These arrests are linked to case number RC 23/2023/NIA/DLI, concerning a ‘transnational conspiracy by Myanmar-based leadership of militant outfits to wage war against the government of India by exploiting the current ethnic unrest in Manipur.’
