Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, November 09 2010:
A Manipur bandh has been called on November 12, the day on which Congress Supremo Sonia Gandhi is scheduled to arrive in Imphal.
The bandh has been called to register a strong protest against the Central government's apparent lack of interest and responsibility in confirming the whereabouts of UNLF chairman RK Meghen.
The 15-hour state-wide bandh which would be effective from 2 am of November 12 till 5 pm of the same day was called jointly by 17 civil organisations including women and students based organisation.
They have argued that keeping the people of the state in the dark without confirming the report of the arrest of UNLF chief for a month has shown that New Delhi neglects the sentiment of the people of the state.
Briefing media persons at a press conference held at Manipur Press Club today, the representatives further said that even though he (Meghen) is leading a banned organisation, he is after all a person born in Manipur which is within the Indian Union.
Elimination of him is tantamount to violation of right to life of a citizen of a democratic country.
His whereabouts should be made known to the people by the Central government without further delay.
If the Central government fails to act as per the wishes of the people, intensified forms of agitation will follow after the proposed general strike on November 12, they said with dissatisfaction.
UPF general secretary Bikramjit representing the 17 civil bodies demanded that the more than 50-year old Manipur-India political conflict should be resolved with democratic means within the parameters of international law.
The organisations calling the bandh include All Manipur Social Reformation and Development Samaj, United Mother's Organisation, All Manipur Chingmi-tammi Apunba Lup, Ireibak Enat Chanura Loinasillon, Thoubal district United Women's Development Organisation, United People Administrative Council, National Identity Protection Committee, Manipur Peace Peace and Integrity Council, All Manipur Students' Union, All Manipur United Clubs Organisation, All Manipur Ethno Socio Cultural Organisation, Poirei Leimarol Meira Paibi Apunba Nupi Lup, United People's Front, Manipur Chanura Lamjinglen, Kangleipak, Kangleipak Students' Association, Ethno Heritage Council and Momnu Irikkhombi Lup.