1. Recent arrests of three Pambei-led UNLF (P) members by the NIA sparked intensified protests in Manipur.
2. Approximately 300 Meira Paibis organized a torch rally from Kwakeithel to Keishampat junction in Imphal.
3. Demonstrators demand the immediate release of the detained individuals, echoing widespread discontent in the community.
Imphal, March 17: Protests in Manipur have escalated following the recent arrest of three members affiliated with the Pambei-led United National Liberation Front (UNLF) by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
Last night, around 300 Meira Paibis led a torch rally from Kwakeithel to Keishampat junction in Imphal, demonstrating strong opposition to the arrests. The primary demand of the protesters is the immediate release of the detained UNLF (P) members.
At Keishampat Junction, the Meira Paibis voiced their discontent through passionate slogans such as “Respect Peace Talks,” “Combat Illegal Immigration,” and “Free the three detainees held by NIA without delay.”
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These chants underscored the frustration within the community over what they perceive as unjust arrests.
One protester emphasized that the three cadres should be treated as civilians, especially given the existing peace agreement with the Pambei-led UNLF group.
She raised concerns about the implications of arresting groups involved in peace talks, particularly for the safety of civilians. Her plea highlighted the urgency of releasing the detainees and urged authorities to reconsider their approach to such arrests.
Among those arrested is Thokchom Thoiba, the army chief of the Pambei group of the UNLF.
The NIA has detained them for 10 days from March 13 to March 23, 2024, in connection with a case about a transnational conspiracy by Myanmar-based militant outfits to wage war against the Indian government by exploiting ethnic unrest in Manipur.
