Imphal, July 15: Several eminent personalities of Manipur expressing shock at the continuing atrocities upon the civilian population especially the female members by security force personnel also extended their solidarity to agitations launched against the 17 Assam Rifles in the wake of extra-judicial killing of Thangjam Manorama alias Henthoi of Bamon Kampu Awang Leikai.

Talking to the Sangai Express regarding the clothe shedding incident by women protesters at the western gate of 17 Assam Rifles today the personalities from diverse fields of life expressed shock at the inaction of State and Central Government to punish security force personnel and cautioned of mass movement if the present situation is not tackled properly.

Former hockey Olympian Ksh Thoiba desiring close coordination between the ruling and opposition parties also stressed on active public participation to overcome various problems afflicting the State of Manipur.

This is no time for the political parties to indulge in mud-slinging bouts but instead chalk out a strategy to contain the free hand of para-military force, the former hockey star said.

He also desired that security force organizations operate under the control of the State Government to minimize undesired consequences.

Noted writer Khaidem Pramodini Devi describing the daring protest by the State women folk today as pursuing in the right direction said imposition of curfew would not solve the burning problem.

Rather than attempting to subdue movement of the sentimentally hurt populace through clamping of curfew the procedure would provoke the people for more stronger agitation when curfew is relaxed or lifted, she said.

Asserting that movements launched in Manipur lacks individuals having leadership qualities the writer mooted need of the hour is someone who possess guts and mass appeal like Irabot.

She also observed that State Government need to rectify flaws pertaining to conduct of security force personnel.

Film-maker Aribam Syam Sharma asserted that the protest by the womenfolk at the AR gate reflects the deep sense of hurt sentiment of the people due to prolong trampling and abuse of human rights by the security personnel under the guise of containing insurgency movement.

It also showcases the genuine spirit and determination of the state women to protect the people of Manipur at any cost.

Shying away from responsibility will serve no purpose to anybody rather the time has come for one and all to face the stark reality and struggle for a definite solution, commented the National Award winner.

Saying that clamping curfew depicts administrative weaknesses and is an attempt to scuffle the voice of the people, Syam Sharma asserted that justice should prevail and guaranteed by both the Government and law enforcing agencies.

Describing the prevailing situation as very serious and complicated, he lamented that despite enormous problems besetting the people there is no efficient leader to look upon to address the grievances.

Instead of leaving the burning issue as prerogative of the senior female members of the society and sitting within the comfort of the home with the only consideration being self security and wellbeing every intellectual and male members must discuss and whole heartedly participate in events that concerns interest of the masses, he mooted.

Winner of Indian Woman Footballer of the Year (2003) O Bembem Devi lamented that Indian para-military personnel and responsible officials still could not accord respect and safeguard the dignity of Manipuri people.

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