Extending the momentum of the mass rally in Imphal, people in Senapati district today staged a rally demanding immediate abrogation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with Kuki militant groups, withdrawal of Assam Rifles from border and conflict-affected areas, and resignation of Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen.
The rally, organised by the Senapati District Apex Body under the aegis of the United Naga Council (UNC), was held at Traffic Point, Senapati. The Naga People’s Organisation (NPO), Senapati District Students’ Association (SDSA) and Senapati District Women’s Association (SDWA) jointly organised the demonstration in support of the statewide mobilisation called by COCOMI in Imphal.
Addressing the gathering, UNC president NG Lorho asserted that Nagas across the hill districts had united to protect their ancestral land amid the ongoing crisis. He alleged that Kuki militant groups were exploiting the SoO arrangement to attack Naga villages, displace civilians and occupy ancestral lands.
Questioning the implementation of SoO ground rules, Lorho claimed that only one cadre was present at Mount Sinai camp against the 150 reportedly required to be stationed there. He also accused Assam Rifles of partisan conduct, including harassment and disarming of village volunteers, and demanded its withdrawal from Naga areas.
Alleging cross-border involvement of the Kuki National Army-Burma (KNA-B), he described the situation as a threat to national security and indigenous communities.
Referring to the abduction and killing of six Naga men, Lorho alleged the involvement of the Kuki National Front-President (KNF-P), headed by Thangboi Kipgen, husband of Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen. Citing an alleged conflict of interest, he demanded her resignation.
“How can a lawmaker and a lawbreaker live together?” he questioned.
The rally also demanded effective implementation of the September 26 tripartite agreement signed in Guwahati between the Governments of India and Manipur and the UNC. Lorho said continued violence had raised questions over the commitments made during the agreement.
The UNC also submitted a memorandum addressed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah through the Deputy Commissioner of Senapati, reiterating its demands.
