Army clarifies
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, March 07 2013: With reference to publication of a news report by State dailies today, regarding women folk securing release of an individual who was arrested by the Army, a pIB (DW) statement clarified that the individual, Rajendro alias Gaithuilung Pamei of Ngariyan village was apprehended, in a joint operation, based upon inputs about his involvement in subversive activities.

After his arrest, the individual was taken to the Army post and questioned.

During this, he revealed his previous involvement with KYKL.

In the meanwhile the womenfolk of Ngariyan village had peacefully gathered outside the Army post and sought an audience with the Army authorities.

They appealed to the Army authorities to release the individual, claiming his innocence.

The womenfolk were informed of the suspected individual's involvement with KYKL, by the Army authorities.

Upon ascertaining that no recent police record existed against the individual and upon the assurance and guarantee of the villagers, the individual was released back to his family in the presence of police and village authorities, conveyed the statement.

The need for the womenfolk to 'Storm' the Army post as reported in some section of media, did not arise since the matter was resolved amicably.

Hinting towards 'extrajudicial killing' and 'evil designs' is a figment of imagination and false propaganda of some villagers with vested interests who do not appreciate the cordial relations between the Army and villagers of the Ngariyan, further maintained the statement and asserted that the Army has always taken utmost care to ensure no human rights violations occur and believes in carrying out its operations in a fair and unprejudiced manner.

It has always been and will always remain the endeavour of the Army to give the benefit of doubt to a suspected individual and respect the sentiments of the local populace as has been in the present case.

The Army will continue to strive for peace and prosperity in Manipur through amicable interaction rather than confrontation, it added.

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