Manipur: Protests intensify over arrest of 3 UNLF (P) cadres, torch rally taken out in Imphal

Protests in Manipur continue to gain momentum as residents express their strong opposition to the National Investigation Agency's recent arrest of three Pambei-led United National Liberation Front (UNLF) cadres. Last night witnessed a significant display of dissent, with approximately 300 Meira Paibis leading a torch rally from Kwakeithel to Keishampat junction in Imphal. Their primary demand was the immediate release of the detained UNLF (P) members, a call that echoed loudly throughout the gathering.

As the rally culminated at Keishampat Junction, the Meira Paibis amplified their discontent through passionate slogans, including "Respect Peace Talks," "Combat Illegal Immigration," and "Free the three detainees held by NIA without delay." These chants reverberated through the streets, underscoring the depth of frustration felt by the community over the perceived injustice of the arrests.

One woman, deeply engaged in the protest, articulated the sentiment that the three cadres should be regarded as civilians, given the peace agreement already in place with the Pambei-led UNLF group. Her impassioned plea to the government resonated with many, as she stressed, "Our peaceful protest seeks to compel the Government to release these three individuals. If the Government begins apprehending groups involved in peace talks, what repercussions will this have on the safety of the general public, especially civilians?" Her concern for the fundamental right to life was palpable, highlighting the gravity of the situation and urging authorities to reconsider their approach and cease such arrests entirely.

Among those apprehended by the central agency is Thokchom Thoiba, the army chief of the United National Liberation Front’s (UNLF) Pambei group. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has detained them for a 10-day period, from March 13 to March 23, 2024. These three Pambei-led UNLF cadres were arrested in connection with case number RC 23/2023/NIA/DLI by NIA New Delhi. This case pertains to a 'transnational conspiracy by Myanmar-based leadership of militant outfits to wage war against the government of India by exploiting the current ethnic unrest in Manipur.'