IT News
Imphal, April 20:
Yumnam Shanta and his family members recounted the ordeal of an armed attack on their home yesterday. Shanta, a polling agent for the Congress in the 18th Lok Sabha election at the Kiyamgei Hiebong Makhong polling station, spoke at a press conference held today at Bimol Akoijam’s residence. He stated, “There were numerous incidents of proxy voting at the polling station. When I urged people to adhere to the rules and regulations, some men forcibly removed me from the polling area and assaulted me. Despite reporting the incident to the polling officer, no action was taken.” Demanding a repoll in the area, he added, “Approximately 40-50 people later came and assaulted me in the polling station itself. They attempted to abduct me, but my wife and sister intervened and saved me.”
His wife, speaking to the media, said, “later, these armed individuals arrived at my residence wielding guns. I want to emphasize that those who claim to work for Manipur are engaging in such reprehensible actions.” She added, “The polling area is under the supervision of central and state forces, yet these armed men were allowed to enter.” Shanta’s wife recounted, “Subsequently, these armed men attacked us with firearms, firing shots in the house, threatened me with guns and even strangling me. They threatened to set our house ablaze.”
Shanta’s sister informed the media that “many individuals dressed in black clothes assaulted my brother. These individuals are affiliated with Arambai Tenggol.” She later mentioned, “My son is also associated with Arambai Tenggol, but I advised him against participating. We are aware that yesterday’s assailants were members of Arambai Tenggol. Arambai Tenggol’s purpose is not to defend Manipur but to safeguard the electoral interests of the BJP.” However, she also expressed fear about what might happen to him if he leaves this organization.
