IT News
Imphal, Sept 10:
The Indigenous Development Mission (IDM) has extended its condolences to the family of Limlal Mate, a 65-year-old former Indian Army soldier, who tragically lost his life after allegedly crossing a “buffer zone” in Manipur. Mate, a retired Havaldar from the mechanised infantry of the Assam Regiment, was reportedly lynched to death after crossing the zone, a temporary demarcation created by security forces to separate the Meitei and Kuki communities in an effort to prevent clashes.
In its statement, IDM raised concerns over how such an incident could occur despite the heavy security presence in the buffer zone. They questioned how Mate, a trained soldier, could have “inadvertently” crossed the zone, particularly given orders issued by Security Advisor Kuldiep Singh, which strictly prohibit any movement across the zone. IDM found it surprising that a soldier with military discipline could make such an error, hinting at a possible lapse in security or other factors that need investigation.
The organization speculated on the possibility of Mate being part of a Kuki group crossing the buffer zone with the intent to attack Meitei settlements. They suggested that Mate may have been separated from his group during an altercation, leading to his death. IDM called for accountability, urging the Security Advisor to hold those responsible for guarding the buffer zone accountable for any negligence that contributed to the incident.
While expressing sorrow for the loss of a man who had served the nation, IDM urged a thorough investigation into the circumstances of his death, stressing the need for clarity and justice for his bereaved family.