Imphal, 10 December
Hundreds of people rallied in Manipur’s capital Imphal today against the reimposition of AFSPA and the killing of six people, including three children, by suspected Kuki militants in Jiribam district last month. This rally started from Thau Maidan area of Imphal West district and reached the Khuman Lampak Stadium after covering a distance of about five kilometers. Meanwhile, the protesters held placards and raised slogans like ‘Don’t destroy Manipur’ and ‘Save Manipur’ and demanded the removal of AFSPA. Various organizations jointly held this rally on the occasion of Human Rights Day. Meanwhile, female protester S. Nirupama said, ‘On the occasion of Human Rights Day, we want to firmly say that the people of Manipur stand strong against the reimposition of AFSPA in the state as well as the killing of innocent women and children by Kuki-Zo terrorists. AFSPA is a weapon to kill civilians in the name of fighting terrorism, due to which people in Imphal Valley and Naga regions have suffered a lot.’
The police said that security was increased in the state capital in view of the rally. The Center recently re-imposed AFSPA in six police station areas of Manipur, including Jiribam. -News-Patiala