Women activists in Bishnupur district took to the streets last night to oppose the central government’s decision to withdraw central forces from Manipur. Torchbearers from areas including Saiton, Salankonjin, and neighboring villages staged a road blockade, expressing their discontent over the move. Gathering in front of Saition High School, where CRPF personnel are stationed, the protestors voiced their condemnation of the central government’s decision. They argued that the removal of central forces before achieving complete normalcy in the state jeopardizes the safety of vulnerable areas, particularly those susceptible to attacks by armed groups.
Chongtham Anandi, one of the protestors, highlighted the significance of central forces in providing a sense of security to villages in Bishnupur district. She questioned the rationale behind withdrawing these forces when peace and normalcy are yet to be fully restored. Amidst the approaching Lok Sabha polls, protestors raised concerns about the timing of the withdrawal, speculating whether it is an attempt to portray Manipur as a peaceful state prematurely.
Echoing the sentiments of the protestors, the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) Bloc Manipur unit also condemned the decision to remove central forces. Convenor Kshetrimayum Shanta emphasized the untimeliness of the move, citing the ongoing crisis in the state and the imperative need for complete peace and normalcy.