Manipur protests demand justice for Jiribam killings, oppose AFSPA reimposition

Mass protests erupted across Manipur as citizens demanded justice for six Meitei women and children killed in Jiribam on November 16, while also opposing the reimposition of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in six police station jurisdictions.

 

Local organisations staged sit-in demonstrations condemning the state government's inaction against 10 Kuki MLAs who allegedly support calls for separate administration in the region.

 

"All the Kuki MLAs are still part of the government even though they are playing a pivotal role in forming separate administrations which Kuki people are demanding. But unfortunately state government not taking any legal action upon them is highly condemnable," protesters stated during the demonstrations.

 

The protesters warned the Speaker of the Manipur Legislative Assembly of intensified agitation if no action is taken against the MLAs. Demonstrators also called for armed militant groups to be officially designated as banned organisations.

 

A protester emphasised their primary concern: "We want peace and stability in our state. The government should focus on resolving ongoing crises and lasting peace."

 

The demonstrations, which began after the November 16 killings, highlight growing tensions in the region as citizens push for governmental action on multiple fronts - from justice for the Jiribam victims to concerns over administrative unity.