Sinakeithei demands Security and Justice

Special Correspondent 
Ukhrul, February 25:
In the wake of the shocking arson attack on Sinakeithei Reserved Forest on February 23, Ukhrul MLA Ram Muivah visited Sinakeithei Village under Ukhrul Assembly Constituency today, standing shoulder to shoulder with the distressed villagers and assuring them of unwavering support for justice, peace, and security.
The visit came a day after alleged armed miscreants suspected to be linked to a Kuki militant group reportedly set fire to sections of the Sinakeithei Reserved Forest, sending shockwaves across the region and heightening fears among residents.
During a heartfelt interaction with villagers, the MLA condemned the act as “a crime against humanity, nature, and peaceful coexistence,” and pledged to raise the matter at the highest levels of government.
“I stand firmly with the people of Sinakeithei. Violence and intimidation cannot silence truth or unity. I will pursue every possible step with the government and security agencies to ensure peace returns and justice is delivered,” Muivah assured.
He further emphasized that lasting peace in the hill districts must be built on dialogue, trust, and equal protection of all communities.
“Our land has seen enough pain. Development and harmony must replace fear and destruction. I appeal to all sides to choose peace, and I assure you that your safety is my top priority,” he added.
The Sinakeithei Village Authority also handed over a detailed memorandum to the Chief Minister of Manipur through the MLA, demanding urgent deployment of police personnel at the long-sanctioned Sinakeithei Police Station.
The memorandum revealed that the police station was officially sanctioned in 2009 and its infrastructure—including station building, barracks, and residential quarters—was completed long ago. However, despite sanctioned manpower of 58 personnel, the station remains non-operational to this day.
Village leaders warned that the absence of security forces has created a dangerous vacuum in an already sensitive region.
“The recent incident shows how vulnerable our village remains. Immediate deployment of police personnel is not only necessary but urgent for protecting innocent lives and preventing further violence,” the memorandum stated.
Signed by Village Chairman Rungsung Ulysis and Headman Vashai Canaan Phungshin Zimik, the appeal urged the government to immediately operationalize the station as originally approved.
Villagers expressed deep concern over repeated threats and rising tensions in surrounding areas. They stressed that a fully functional police station would act as a deterrent to armed groups and restore confidence among civilians.
The MLA assured that he would personally pursue the matter with the Home Department and press for immediate action.
“Peace cannot survive without security. The government must act swiftly to post personnel at Sinakeithei Police Station. The people deserve protection, dignity, and justice,” Muivah said.
Despite the trauma of the recent attack, the visit brought a sense of reassurance to villagers, who vowed to remain united and peaceful.
As tensions simmer in parts of hill districts, Sinakeithei’s appeal highlights a stark reality—development without security leaves communities exposed. The people now await swift government action to ensure that promises made years ago are finally fulfilled and that Sinakeithei never again faces such terror alone.