ANSAM leads peace rally in Imphal demanding justice, NIA probe and action over killing of six Liangmai Nagas
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IMPHAL — Demanding justice for the killing of six Naga civilians, a peace protest rally was held in Imphal on Saturday under the aegis of the All Naga Students' Association Manipur (ANSAM).
The rally, organised on the theme ‘Demanding Justice for the Infamous Leilon Vaiphei Massacre Carried Out by KNF-P,’ began from the Tangkhul Baptist Church area. It proceeded through North AOC, reached Khoyathong traffic junction, and returned via North AOC before culminating at Mao Market, Imphal, where a brief gathering was held.
A large number of ANSAM members and volunteers, along with supporters from the Imphal Valley, participated in the rally dressed in black and carrying placards, while raising slogans demanding justice for the deceased civilians and the restoration of peace.
A large contingent of armed and unarmed security personnel, including personnel from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the Rapid Action Force (RAF), was deployed at strategic points along the rally route to prevent any untoward incident.
Participants in the rally also demanded the abrogation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with Kuki militant groups.
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Addressing the gathering, ANSAM president Angteshang Maring said that the rally was organised to highlight the concerns of the bereaved families and the community, who are seeking justice for the six Naga civilians from Konsakhul village who were allegedly held hostage for more than 20 days before being killed.
It may be recalled that the six Nagas were allegedly abducted on May 13 from Leilon Vaiphei village in Kangpokpi district, and their mortal remains were recovered during a massive search operation in the same district on June 10.
"We are requesting the government to bring those involved in the killings to justice, but no arrests have been made so far. We therefore demand a thorough investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to ensure justice," Maring said.
He also demanded that KNF-P be designated a terrorist outfit if evidence establishes its involvement.
Echoing the demand, Naga Women Union Manipur president Priscilla Thiumai said that the organisation would continue its pursuit of justice until those responsible are brought to book and justice is served.