Northeast Desk, 17th March: Protests in Manipur continue to gain momentum as residents express strong opposition to the recent arrest of three Pambei-led United National Liberation Front (UNLF) cadres by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Last night, approximately 300 Meira Paibis led a torch rally from Kwakeithel to Keishampat junction in Imphal, displaying significant dissent and demanding the immediate release of the detained UNLF (P) members.
As the rally culminated at Keishampat Junction, the Meira Paibis intensified their discontent through passionate slogans, including “Respect Peace Talks,” “Combat Illegal Immigration,” and “Free the three detainees held by NIA without delay.” These chants echoed through the streets, reflecting the depth of frustration felt by the community over the perceived injustice of the arrests.
One woman, deeply engaged in the protest, articulated the sentiment that the three cadres should be regarded as civilians, given the peace agreement already in place with the Pambei-led UNLF group. Her impassioned plea to the government resonated with many, as she stressed, “Our peaceful protest seeks to compel the Government to release these three individuals. If the Government begins apprehending groups involved in peace talks, what repercussions will this have on the safety of the general public, especially civilians?” Her concern for the fundamental right to life underscored the gravity of the situation and urged authorities to reconsider their approach and cease such arrests entirely.
Among those apprehended by the central agency is Thokchom Thoiba, the army chief of the United National Liberation Front’s (UNLF) Pambei group. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has detained them for a 10-day period, from March 13 to March 23, 2024. These three Pambei-led UNLF cadres were arrested in connection with case number RC 23/2023/NIA/DLI by NIA New Delhi. This case pertains to 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.’
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