Mass protests galore demanding justice for Linthoingambi and Hemanjit

In various regions of the state, impassioned sit-in-protests erupted as citizens fervently demanded justice for Linthoingambi and Hemanjit. Amid this backdrop of fervor and demand for justice, MAHUD Minister Yumnam Khemchand’s wife, Joybala, sought to participate at the Singjamei Bazar protest site. However, her arrival was met with a wave of indignation. As Joybala attempted to join, a significant number of protesters stood up in anger, questioning her intentions and asking her to depart immediately. They voiced their resentment, questioning why she remained silent for five months and chose this moment to voice her support. Many declared they would abandon the protest if she was allowed to stay. This tension culminated in a verbal altercation, resulting in Joybala’s exit from the site. Undeterred, she subsequently moved to Chingamakha Ningthoujam Laikai, where she participated in another protest.
The sit-in protests across Manipur serve as a palpable testament to the collective anguish and uproar of its people against the grievous injustices meted out to the innocent. This wave of protests was not just a cry against the brutal killing of two young students but also a strong condemnation of the excessive and inhuman violence perpetrated by both the state forces and the central para-military troops.
The harrowing discovery of the cold-blooded murders of Phijam Hemanjit and Hijam Linthoinganbi, who mysteriously disappeared on July 6, 2023, acted as the catalyst for the people’s fury. Such an atrocity, committed against two innocent souls, deeply wounded the collective conscience of the Manipuri community. People from various walks of life, irrespective of their age, gender, or socio-economic status, united under a shared sense of grief and rage.
Across Manipur, the unified cry rang out: “Justice for Lingthoingambi Hijam and Hemanjit Phijam!” The heart of this movement pulsated across districts like Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishenpur, and Kakching. Prominent locations such as Singjamei Keithel Ema Phiyonpham became epicenters of the outcry. Key community groups like Singjamei Apunba Nupi Lup (Sanlup), Singjamei Apunba Lup (SAL), and the Social Workers Congress stood at the forefront, amplifying the demand for justice. Notable organizations like the Oriental Club, Haobam Marak Social Union Club, and Langthabal Kendra Meira Paibi Coordinating Committee joined the chorus.
Places like Tera Loukram Leikai community hall, Keishamthong Keithel, and the student community of UNACCO school Meitram resonated with passionate protests. Together, this collective movement reflected the state’s unwavering demand for accountability and justice.