IT News
Imphal, Feb 20:
Women vendors from the Khwairamband Keithel market in Imphal have taken a decisive stand against the sale of goods sourced from the Kuki community, issuing a stern warning to individuals supporting Kuki traders. The joint body of Khwairamband Keithel Women vendors, led by Ima Memma, President of the Manipur Women’s Federation (MWF), has emphasized the ramifications of patronizing Kuki goods, citing the community’s alleged involvement in driving out Meitei people from certain areas and causing destruction to their properties.
Acting under the umbrella of the Federation of Civil Society Organizations (FOCS) Manipur, the joint body intercepted a vehicle at Khwairamband Keithel loaded with beans, Monkey Rice, King Chilli, Rajma, among other items, destined for sale in the Imphal Market.
Imma Memma stressed the importance of solidarity among indigenous communities in the state to counter the presence of illegal Kuki immigrants, who are perceived to be jeopardizing Manipur’s peace, harmony, and territorial integrity.
Khwairakpam Manitombi, a vendor, revealed that women vendors from various areas, including Nagamapal, Kasturi Bridge, and below the Bir Tikendrajit overbridge, have already declared a ban on Kuki products within the valley market through media channels. Manitombi noted a sudden influx of vegetables, including beans, Monkey Rice, King Chilli, and Rajma, arriving in a mini-truck from Moreh this morning, suspecting their origin to be Kuki traders in Moreh.
“We have confiscated the items and will not return them, but will decide on their disposal in consultation with vendor ladies and the FOCS,” Manitombi asserted.
