Massive Protest by Women Vendors in Manipur Demands Release of Arrested Members
Protest at Ima Keithel
Women vendors staging a protest at Manipur's iconic Ima Keithel, on Tuesday. (AT Photo)
Imphal, June 23: The bustling Khwairamband Keithel, known as the economic hub of Manipur, experienced a complete shutdown on Tuesday as thousands of women vendors organized a significant protest. They demanded the immediate release of four members from the Arambai Tenggol group, who were detained by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
This demonstration halted business activities throughout central Imphal, with key commercial areas such as Thangal Bazar, Paona Bazar, Alu Gali, and nearby markets closing in support of the protest.
Women gathered within the market complex, conducting a dharna and chanting slogans against the arrests while expressing their discontent with the current state of affairs.
During the protest, Ima Keithel Secretary Chingkheinganbi emphasized the urgent need for the unconditional release of the detained Arambai Tenggol members.
“The women vendors are deeply troubled by these arrests. Our protest will not conclude today; we are ready to escalate our movement through various democratic means if our demands are overlooked,” she stated.
Chingkheinganbi also criticized the current government for its inability to achieve a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis in Manipur, which has persisted for over three years.
“If the situation continues as it is, how does the government expect to regain power? How can they approach the public for votes?” she questioned, highlighting the growing public dissatisfaction regarding the lack of normalcy and lasting peace.
Her comments carry political weight as Manipur is set to hold Assembly elections early next year.
As political parties gear up for the electoral contest, discussions surrounding peace, security, rehabilitation, and governance are anticipated to take center stage.
In the meantime, Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam addressed the security situation, stating that peace in the valley regions is crucial for security forces to address issues in the hill districts.
“While minor incidents may occur in the valley, disturbances persist in the hills. We need to ensure a peaceful environment in the valley to allow security personnel to effectively manage operations in the hill areas,” he remarked.
He also mentioned that discussions were held with the DGP regarding the recent arrests of three Arambai Tenggol members by the NIA, emphasizing the need to prevent further arrests.
The Home Minister highlighted that the government’s de-weaponization initiative is already underway and urged the public to support efforts aimed at restoring normalcy.
“I sincerely appeal to everyone to foster peaceful coexistence and help bring tranquility back to the state for a progressive Manipur,” he concluded.