Manipur erupts in protest, rally against AFSPA reimposition and Jiribam killings

A protest rally was organized in Manipur against the recent reimposition of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) and the killing of six individuals in Jiribam. The demonstration, held in defiance of a curfew, was spearheaded by the All Manipur United Clubs Organisation (AMUCO), Poirei Leimarol Meira Paibi Manipur, the Manipur Students’ Federation (MSF), and the All Manipur Woman Voluntary Organisations. The protest began at Kwakeithel Tiddim ground and proceeded to Keisampat Junction.

The rally took place in response to growing concerns following the fatal shooting of Senior SP (Operations) Nectar Sanjenbam in Jiribam, which occurred shortly after AFSPA was reimposed in the district. This act, coupled with the killing of six Meitei civilians by Kuki militants on November 11, has fueled public anger and intensified demands for a review of the policy.

Ph Nando Luwang, President of AMUCO, condemned the reinstatement of AFSPA, describing it as a "draconian and black law" and lamenting its adverse impact on the state’s fragile peace. “Reimposing AFSPA in six identified police stations is unjustifiable. This will not mitigate the crisis but deepen the suffering of the people. Manipur has endured enough pain under AFSPA in the past. The authorities must reconsider their decision and repeal it as soon as possible,” Luwang urged.

He also criticized the central government’s inaction over the ongoing crisis, which has persisted for 18 months. Luwang expressed frustration over what he described as the Indian government’s indifference to the plight of the Meitei community, likening it to an intent to erase their presence from society.