Thousands rally in Imphal seeking protection for indigenous people
Protesters in Manipur demanded the scrapping of the Suspension of Operations pact and the resignation of the state government.
Thousands of people gathered in Imphal on Saturday to demand protection for indigenous communities and the termination of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement, according to Telangana Today.
The rally was organised by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI). Participants marched from Tiddim Ground towards THAU Ground in Imphal West district, carrying placards calling for peace and the abrogation of the pact.
COCOMI convenor Y Dhiren said the group is seeking the resignation of the current government because it has failed to protect the lives and properties of indigenous people.
Naga organisations, including the United Naga Council (UNC), endorsed the rally. Naga civil bodies held marches in Chandel and Senapati districts to support the Imphal protest.
In Senapati and Chandel, organisations such as the Naga People's Organisation (NPO) demanded the resignation of Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen. Naga groups accused Kuki-Zo militant groups of involvement in violence.
The state has experienced ethnic conflict between Meitei and Kuki communities since May 2023. Since February this year, clashes between Kukis and Nagas have resulted in approximately 50 deaths.