Meitei community holds rally in Manipur:Protesters raise slogans against govt, demands to scrap pact with Kuki militants

Meitei organisations held a rally in Manipur’s capital, Imphal, on Saturday. They demanded security for local people and the cancellation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with Kuki militant groups. The rally received support from several Naga organisations. Naga organisations also held rallies in Chandel and Senapati districts. Ethnic violence has continued in Manipur since May 2023. Protesters carried posters reading ‘Save Manipur’ The rally was organised by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity. The United Naga Council (UNC), the apex body of Naga organisations, also supported the rally. The protesters were carrying posters and placards bearing the words ‘Save Manipur’. Their demands included ‘We want peace and justice’ and ‘Cancel the SoO agreement’. 3 photos from the rally Demands resignation from govt The committee’s convenor, Y. Dhiren, said, “We want the resignation of the incumbent government, which has failed to protect the lives and property of local people in the state.” A protester said, “After three and a half years of crisis in Manipur, the Naga tribes, the Meiteis and the indigenous people are joining forces to raise their voice against the government.” Rallies also held in Senapati and Chandel A rally was also held in the Naga-majority Senapati district. The protesters demanded the immediate cancellation of the SoO agreement and the resignation of Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen. The rally was organised by the Naga People’s Organisation (NPO), the Senapati District Students Association (SDSA) and the Senapati District Women’s Association (SDWA). The rally was held in support of the rally called by COCOMI in Imphal. UNC president N. Lorho said Nagas in the hill districts had united to protect their ancestral land. A similar rally was held in Chandel district, demanding the resignation of Deputy Chief Minister Kipgen and the cancellation of the SoO agreement. More than 300 killed in ethnic violence in Manipur