Imagi Meira has condemned the various distressing incidents of violence that happened during the first phase of the 18th Lok Sabha Election, 2024 that was held on Friday.
Addressing the press at the Manipur Press Club on Saturday, convenor of Imagi Meira Thokchom Sujata also condemned the failure of the state to provide adequate security during the polls.
Meanwhile, armed miscreants fired a few rounds in front of the gate of Sujata’s residence at Singjamei Thokchom Leikai at around 9.30 pm on Saturday and fled in a two-wheeler.
The election unfolded amid the backdrop of simmering ethnic conflict, exacerbating a scenario where citizens found themselves stripped of their fundamental democratic rights, the Imagi Meira convenor said.
“If we cannot exercise our right to vote without fear or interference, how can we expect to uphold our values through peaceful means?”, she questioned.
Expressing dismay, Imagi Meira lamented the emergence of a faction known simply as the “unknown men” who brazenly wreaked havoc and instilled terror through their wanton acts of violence. “Who are these unknown men?” she further questioned.
This query highlights a glaring failure on the part of the government to safeguard its populace from armed elements and to ensure the integrity of the electoral process, she added.
Imagi Meira further criticized the apparent apathy of law enforcement, highlighting that the police remained inert while armed perpetrators freely roamed the streets, perpetuating fear and chaos.
Moreover, she brought attention to the distressing incidents of violence against the most vulnerable members of society, citing the harrowing account of a woman subjected to physical assault and the tragic shooting of an elderly man. These appalling acts serve as stark reminders of the perilous state of our community.
Imagi Meira unequivocally asserted that the government’s inability to effectively manage the situation and uphold the principles of democratic election represents a grave failure on its part.
