IT News
Imphal, Sept 29:
Fourteen civil society organizations (CSOs) in Manipur have strongly condemned Meitei Leepun for allegedly harassing a 27-year-old named Jos Chongtham and for intimidating Human Rights activist Babloo Loitongbam. This follows an earlier accusation by 12 women’s bodies, including AMKIL, Macha Leima Nupi Samaj, Chingmi Tammi, and the Khwairambandh Keithel vendors’ group, which also criticized Meitei Leepul for similar actions. The CSOs, which include HERICOUN, DESAM, UICAL, USER Manipur, WAS, KEDO, AMSCO, WAMA, MEELAL, WUM, LSTK, KIMACS, LOUSAL, and TIPS, condemned the intimidation of rights activists through what they described as mob culture.
Speaking to media persons at the DESAM office, RK Tharaksana, President of the Women Association for Socio-Economic Development (WASDEV), spoke on behalf of the 14 organizations. She expressed dismay over the incident involving Jos Chongtham, who was reportedly harassed by members of Meitei Leepun due to a social media post he had shared in a WhatsApp group titled “Be the Change, We Support Oja Bimal.” According to Tharaksana, the harassment occurred despite Chongtham Jos having provided clarification, which she called a gross violation of human rights. She also condemned the intimidation of Babloo Loitongbam by around 40 to 50 Meitei Leepun volunteers.
The statement from the CSOs emphasized the context of the ongoing attacks by Chin-Kuki narco-terrorists, who have been targeting civilians and destabilizing Manipur’s sovereignty. The groups underscored the need for unity among Meitei people to counter these external threats. They urged the public to resist forces aiming to weaken the state and to work together to protect its future.
Concerns were also raised about the controversial WhatsApp post, which has been widely circulated on social media. The message, “Be the Change, We Support Oja Bimal,” was said to have triggered suspicions of manipulation intended to create divisions within the Meitei community. The CSOs called on individuals and groups to act responsibly and not exacerbate tensions further.
The CSOs further highlighted the growing concerns about psychological threats, home raids, and attacks on women and children. They called on citizens to remain alert and take necessary measures to protect their families and communities.
