The internally displaced people (IDP) of Manipur today took out a protest rally in Imphal under the banner of the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), demanding the safe return of IDPs to their homes.
COCOMI members also took part in the rally that started from Takhellambam Leikai in Imphal West district and proceeded towards the Lok Bhavan here. However, they were stopped at Keisampat junction, nearly 200 metres from Lok Bhavan, which led to arguments between protesters and security forces.
A large numbe of security personnel, including Rapid Action Force, have been deployed while barricades have been put up at Keisampat junction as well Takhellambam Leikai.
Following the standoff, an 11-member delegation led by COCOMI convenor Khuraijam Athouba was allowed to meet officials at the Chief Secretary’s office and subnit a memorandum underscoring their demands.
The delegation later went to Lok Bhavan and submitted a memorandum reiterating their main demand for ensuring safe return of the IDPs to their native places.
