A significant peace rally, organized by the Federation of Civil Societies (FOCS), drew a substantial crowd at the Kangla Northern Gate in Imphal on Friday morning, highlighting the region’s ongoing desire for stability. The rally, which included numerous Meira Lup members, was intended to march towards Senapati, advocating for peace in the troubled area.
The march commenced at approximately 8:50 AM, but was immediately met with police intervention. Authorities cited the absence of necessary permits as the reason for halting the procession. Despite the initial roadblocks, a segment of the participants managed to proceed to Sekmai, only to be confronted and stopped once more by security personnel at Sekmai Pangaltabi, effectively preventing them from continuing their journey.
The timing of the peace rally coincided with the Central government’s announced plan to reinstate free movement along the highway. High-ranking police officers attempted to persuade FOCS volunteers to join the government-initiated free movement, suggesting it as an alternative to their independent rally if their goal was to reach Senapati. This proposal, however, was rejected by FOCS members, who argued that the government’s free movement initiative was open to all, whereas they required the freedom to travel in their own designated vehicles.
T Manihar, the President of FOCS, addressed the media, stating, “The purpose of the peace rally is to bring peace in the state. If the Government is not in a position to allow free movement of public, what is the need for making the announcement? The assurance given by the central government for giving protection and security should be the enough testament for any kind of movement.” His remarks underscored the group’s frustration with the government’s actions and the perceived contradiction between its promises and its on-ground implementation.
While the authorities defended their actions on procedural grounds, the substantial turnout for the rally demonstrated the strong public sentiment in favor of peace. Concurrently, public bus services resumed under security escort from today, marking a separate effort to restore normalcy in the region.