Imphal, Aug 19: In the wake of the shocking triple murder in Thowai village, Ukhrul district, protests have erupted in Hill areas dominated by the Kuki-Zo community in Manipur, demanding reimplementation of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA).

The incident, suspected to be linked to militants, has ignited public anger, leading to disruptions and demonstrations.

Hundreds of women from Kangpokpi district have converged along National Highway-2, effectively obstructing traffic since Friday afternoon. The protests are set to continue through Saturday as well, with local residents demanding justice for the victims and the reintroduction of Assam Rifles into the region.

The protestors have highlighted the vulnerability of the tribal population in light of recent events. Just barely two days after Manipur Chief Minister extended an olive branch with a call for reconciliation and peaceful coexistence on India’s 77th Independence Day, the gruesome triple murder has shattered this fragile sense of calm.

Expressing their disillusionment with the current state of affairs, female protestors emphasized the need for immediate central intervention and the restoration of AFSPA. The sentiment was echoed by the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), which, while acknowledging the government’s move to withdraw AFSPA from several police station areas earlier this year, has now advocated for its reinstatement across both valley and hill districts.

Ng. Lun Kipgen, Media Cell Coordinator for CoTU, questioned the government’s actions, raising concerns about the removal of Assam Rifles from certain areas and the potential consequences. Kipgen said if the central authorities cannot consider imposing President’s Rule, it should contemplate imposing Article 355. Resolutely advocating for the reimposition of AFSPA, Kipgen stressed, “We want AFSPA to be reimposed in areas from which it was recently removed. The removal of Assam Rifles from Litan area was one of the reasons why yesterday (Friday) killing could take place.”

Another woman protestor added, “On Independence Day, CM said ‘let us forgive, forget, and live together’ but within two days of that appeal we lost three innocent villagers. Today, we want Centre to deliver justice to us and reintroduce AFSPA as soon as possible.”

Also read: CPI(M) delegation visit Manipur: Sitaram Yechury says ‘cannot keep lingering…’

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