Hundreds Protest Against Narco-Terrorism in Manipur

Imphal: Hundreds of youths and women took to the streets across Manipur on Sunday to protest against what organizers call growing narco-terrorism in the region. The rally, organized by the Indigenous People's Front under the theme Save Manipur from Narco Terrorism, traveled through numerous localities including Sekmai, Imphal, Bishnupur, and Kakching.

The demonstration began at the Koujeng Leima temple and was launched by Yengkokpam Dhiren, the convenor of the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity. Dhiren stated that the primary objective of the event was to protect local indigenous communities from the activities of groups involved in illicit narcotics and violence.

This display of public concern follows rising tensions linked to the reported abduction of 20 civilians between May 13 and May 15 near Leilon Veiphei and Sapormeina. While 14 individuals have been released, six remain in captivity. Civil society groups have issued a three-day ultimatum for the safe return of the remaining hostages and are demanding legal action against the perpetrators.

Beyond the rescue efforts, protesters are calling for the cancellation of the Suspension of Operations agreement with the Kuki National Front. They also demanded the removal of MLA Nemcha Kipgen from her government post, citing alleged familial ties to a militant. Community leaders emphasized that indigenous groups will maintain a unified stance against what they describe as repeated territorial aggression.