Lawyers of Manipur under All Manipur Bar Association (AMBA) held a sit-in-protest against the Centre’s divide and rule policy at the gate of Cheirap Court complex on Friday.
The protest, held under the theme “One nation, One state. Stop divide and rule policy” aimed to draw attention to the escalating issues facing Manipur.
In connection with the protest, AMBA president P Tomcha condemned the burning and destruction of Meitei homes as well as the forced displacement of Meitei people.
“Meiteis criticized the central government for its perceived inaction, despite repeatedly acknowledging external aggression, even in parliamentary sessions”, Tomcha said.
He pointed out the discrepancy where law and order are state subjects, but illegal immigration falls under central jurisdiction. He said that the Meiteis expressed concern over the government’s narrative that perpetuates divisions between Meitei and Kuki communities, which he believes has contributed to ongoing violence and a divide-and-rule strategy evident in places like Jiribam.
Former acting chairperson of Manipur Human Rights Commission, Khaidem Mani said that Manipur is in a state of “suspended animation,” likening it to a frozen or dead state.
He criticized the state government, alleging that all major decisions are being orchestrated through the Director General of Police (DGP) and the security advisor under the direct guidance of the central Home Ministry.
He also criticised the exclusion of Manipur chief minister while meeting with security advisor and DGP Manipur at Centre with Amit Shah regarding the Manipur issue.
“It was an executive meeting and as the head of the executive of Manipur, the chief minister should have been included”, Khaidem Mani said.
