Imphal, June 09 2010: Denouncing continued deprivation of right to vote of the Kom tribe in ADC election, Komrem Union, Manipur has categorically stated that Kom people do not want to be a part of Churachandpur district any more but would like to join Bishnupur or some other valley districts.

Addressing a press conference in this regard at Manipur Press Club here today, Union president John L Karoung Kom informed that on the day of repolling at Dampi polling station on May 31 last, the Kom voters found that bamboo and wooden barricades erected along the approach road of the village that led to the polling station by armed and unarmed supporters of the Independent candidate Tongminthang Lhungdim.

When the Kom voters tried to push through the barricades, they were threatened by showing guns and told that Kom voters have no right to caste their votes, Karoung said, adding that security personnel present around the said polling station did not come to their rescue.

Polling officers were also aware of the incident, but they did nothing to ensure the entry of Kom voters, he said.

Apart from the complaint lodged with Returning Officer, District Returning Officer as well as the State Election Commission, a memorandum had also been submitted to the Chief Minister, but no steps have been taken up for holding second repolling, Karoung lamented.

Demanding redressal of their grievances at the earliest possible, the Union has also announced its decision of launching sustained movement for the cause of justice to Kom community.

Now we don't want to be a part of Churachandpur district.

We want to join Bishnupur or other valley district', he added.

Blockade call: Akhui Circle Development Organisation has announced that an indefinite blockade on the Khongsang-Tamenglong route would be enforced in pursuit of its demand for repolling in 15/1 Chengdai constituency of Tamenglong Autonomous District Council election.

The blockade will remain in force till the demand has been conceded, asserted a release issued by ACDO chairman.