Imphal: Manipur witnessed a massive protest rally on Sunday, with thousands defying curfew to demand the repeal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) and justice for six individuals killed in Jiribam.
Organized by prominent civil society groups, including the All Manipur United Clubs Organisation (AMUCO), Poirei Leimarol Meira Paibi Manipur, the Manipur Students’ Federation (MSF), and the All Manipur Woman Voluntary Organisations, the demonstration began at Kwakeithel Tiddim ground and culminated at Keisampat Junction.
The rally followed heightened tensions in the state after the reimposition of AFSPA in six police stations and the fatal shooting of Senior SP (Operations) Nectar Sanjenbam in Jiribam. The killing of six Meitei civilians by Kuki militants on November 11 further inflamed public anger, leading to widespread calls for a policy review.
Addressing the crowd, AMUCO President Ph Nando Luwang condemned the reinstatement of AFSPA, calling it a “draconian and black law” that has caused immense suffering in Manipur. “Reimposing AFSPA in these areas will only exacerbate the crisis. Manipur has endured decades of pain under this law. The government must urgently repeal it to prevent further harm to our people,” Luwang stated.
He also criticized the central government for its perceived inaction, alleging indifference toward the ongoing crisis that has gripped the state for over 18 months. “The Meitei community is being systematically marginalized. The lack of decisive action reflects an intent to erase our identity and existence,” Luwang added.
The demonstration, which saw participation from a cross-section of Manipur’s society, echoed a collective demand for justice, peace, and the protection of civil rights. Protesters vowed to intensify their movement until their demands are met.
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