Strongly condemning the reported poll violence at various polling stations during the first phase of the voting for the 18th Lok Sabha Election, 2024 in Manipur which was held on Friday, the Khwairamband Keithel Women stated that the violences have deeply shaken the community.
Addressing a press conference at Manipur Press Club, Khwairamband Market Women spokesperson Ashem Nirmala advocated for peace and democratic integrity by condemning those responsible for the violence.
Recognized for their historical struggle for Manipur and its people, the women voiced their condemnation of the attacks and called for immediate action to prevent their recurrence.
Asem Nirmala highlighted the pivotal role women have played throughout Manipur’s history. From their participation in the Nupi Lal movement to their defense of those advocating for Manipur’s self-determination, women have stood as guardians of the community’s wellbeing and aspirations, she said.
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She said that these acts of violence during Friday’s election have deeply shaken the community.
“Yesterday’s incidents were a direct affront to us. We refuse to tolerate such actions, and they must not be repeated”, she said.
Looking ahead to the repoll, the Khwairamband Market women have called upon the Meira Paibis to step forward and safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.
Their presence, they argue, is essential in thwarting any attempts to disrupt voting proceedings through violence or intimidation.
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