Imphal: A wave of concern and demand for lasting peace swept through Manipur’s Thongju Assembly Constituency as Meitei women from three distinct localities converged at Thongju Bokul Makhong Village for a determined sit-in protest.
Their primary appeal was directed at Union Home Minister Amit Shah, imploring him to intervene decisively and restore normalcy to the state, which has endured two years of persistent unrest.
The women, leading the demonstration, articulated a collective yearning for an end to the protracted turmoil that has gripped Manipur. “Meiteis are a peace-loving community that demands the integrity and unity of the state,” declared Elika Thongam, a vocal participant. She further highlighted the role of Village Volunteers, who had initially stepped forward to defend their communities from relentless attacks. However, in adherence to directives issued by the Union Home Minister, these volunteers have largely surrendered their arms to the state government. The protestors now urge the government to apprehend any remaining Village Volunteers who have yet to comply.
Furthermore, the protestors issued a strong call for the central government to take immediate and decisive action against individuals and groups implicated in acts of terrorism. They specifically referenced a recent incident where directives from the Union Home Minister regarding free movement were disregarded, demanding punitive measures for such defiance.
The context of the protest is further underscored by the ongoing efforts to recover illicit weapons. The Manipur Governor had previously issued a plea to all communities to voluntarily surrender looted arms, extending the deadline to March 6th. Even after the deadline’s expiration, individuals continue to turn in weapons at local police stations and security camps.
Compounding these efforts, security forces conducted extensive search operations across Manipur on Friday, March 7, 2025. These operations yielded a significant cache of weapons, ammunition, explosives, and military-grade equipment, seized from districts including Imphal East, Jiribam, Ukhrul, and Tengnoupal.
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