IT News
Imphal, April 16:
All India Trade Union Congress Manipur Unit, along with Manipur Barber Association, has expressed that extortion by certain armed groups targeting barbers in Manipur has led to the closing down of barber shops everywhere. Speaking to the media, AITUC Manipur Unit’s general secretary, L. Sotinkumar, said, “The working class is suffering immensely, especially those living hand to mouth. The drivers’ association’s office has been closed due to extortion. Trade unions, federations, and many other working-class bodies are being extorted for money. Now, the barbers, who belong to the lowest caste, are being extorted by armed men.”
“Some have even paid amounts ranging from 5 to 10 lakhs. They have even threatened members of All India Trade Union Congress. Why are they demanding money from them? They have kept bullets and hand grenades. Many shops are closing down. There are plenty of rich people, politicians, drug lords, and bureaucrats who have exploited Manipur. They should be the ones from whom money is demanded,” added Sotinkumar Laishram.
Kh. Shamungou Singh, secretary of AITUC, further said that the Manipur Barber Association’s general body comprises mostly non-Manipuris. “We are discussing their problems in the general body meeting. He mentioned serious cases of extortion to which they cannot turn a blind eye. Bombs and bullets have been left at the shops of the leaders of the Barber Association.”
According to Kh Shamungou, “since the barber association is affiliated with AITUC, we are raising our voice. We have talked to law enforcement agencies, but they have done nothing. If they are asking for donations, then we are willing to pay. But he appeals that those demanding should refrain from extortion.”
Barber Association leaders General Secretary, Pappu Thakur, and Treasurer Om Prakash Thakur were also present at the press meet.
