Social activist Malem Thongam has submitted a missive to Chief Minister Y. Khemchand requesting the Chief Minister to inform the public within 15 days of the steps taken to ensure free and safe movement of Meiteis across all districts of the state.
In the letter, Malem Thongam from Maibakhul Mayai Leikai, Imphal East district, drew attention to the ongoing crisis between communities in the state, which has continued for nearly three years, stating that since the beginning of the ongoing conflict in the state, he has been continuously undertaking various democratic agitations and awareness activities both within and outside Manipur, appealing to the state government and the union government to take necessary steps to restore peace and normalcy in the state.
However, despite repeated appeals and efforts from concerned citizens, instead of witnessing lasting peace, the people of Manipur continue to witness recurring incidents of violence and unrest. Even after the imposition of President’s Rule and the subsequent formation of a popular government, divisions between communities continue to persist in many parts of the state, he stated.
With the idea of promoting peace and unity and the “Idea of Manipur,” Malem Thongam stated that he undertook a 35-day Peace Awareness Solo Cycling Expedition beginning on March 12 last and scheduled to conclude on April 15, intending to travel across all 16 districts of the state to spread awareness for peace, harmony, and coexistence among the people. However, during the course of this expedition, he stated that he was not allowed by the authorities to proceed beyond the Chandel district, and even the peace awareness campaign was not permitted to continue further.
The social activist requested the state government to clarify the reasons for restricting this peaceful initiative and inform the people of Manipur about the steps being taken.
In the interest of the people of Manipur and in pursuit of lasting peace and normalcy, Malem Thongam demanded that within 15 days, the state government should inform the people of the state about the steps taken to ensure that the Meiteis can freely and safely travel across all districts of the state without any obstruction.
In the interest of restoring public safety, necessary measures should be taken up within 15 days to facilitate the surrender of sophisticated weapons that are reportedly still in the possession of multiple organizations, he stated.
The social activist expressed hope that the government will treat this matter with urgency and take necessary steps to restore peace, trust, and normal movement among all communities of the state.
