In a show of solidarity and defiance, sit-in protests were held across the valley districts of Manipur on Wednesday, as community leaders, backed by Meira Paibis and Ima Lups, denounced actions against Meitei village volunteers.
The protestors demanded immunity from arrest and cases for the Meitei village volunteers who have been steadfastly defending against Kuki aggression in peripheral areas since the onset of the prolonged crisis, spanning over nine months.
The protests highlighted a unified front against any attempts to undermine the efforts of Meitei village volunteers, signaling a collective determination to protect the community’s interests amidst ongoing challenges.
Addressing the media during one such protest at Soibam Leikai Crossing in Imphal East, M Bimola, a member of Soibam Leikai Awang Meira Paibi, stressed the critical role played by Meitei village volunteers in safeguarding the community.
She emphasised that without their unwavering commitment, the community might have faced dire consequences.
Highlighting the sacrifice and dedication of these young volunteers, Bimola stressed that their efforts transcend individual interests and serve the collective welfare of the Meitei community.
She urged the government not to jeopardise their future by initiating legal action against them, emphasising the broader societal impact of such actions.
Bimola further asserted that the Meitei village volunteers enjoy unwavering support from all the Imas (mothers) of Manipur and emphasised that no authority should dare to initiate punitive measures against these volunteers, given their indispensable role in safeguarding the community’s interests.
