Manipur: Bimol Akoijam's supporters gherao BJP office in Imphal, allege political witch-hunt

Supporters of Congress MP Angomcha Bimol Akoijam on October 14 staged a protest outside the BJP office at Keishampat in Imphal, accusing political forces of targeting the parliamentarian amid the controversy over allegations of sexual harassment against him.

The protesters marched from Akoijam's residence at Keishamthong towards the BJP headquarters, raising slogans such as "Down Down BJP", "We Support Oja Bimol" and "Justice for Oja Bimol".

Security personnel stopped the rally near Keishampat Junction and in front of the BJP office. A large contingent of police personnel was deployed to maintain law and order as the demonstrators staged a protest outside the party headquarters before dispersing.

Carrying placards under the banner "Targeted Political Campaign Against Oja Bimol — Manipur Stands With Our MP", the protesters demanded an end to what they described as a political witch-hunt against the Congress MP.

The placards read, "Stop Political Witch Hunt Against Oja Bimol", "Oja Bimol Deserves Justice, Not Political Persecution" and "Don't Weaponise Institutions for Political Vendetta".

The demonstrators questioned the BJP's position on the controversy surrounding the allegations against Akoijam, which have also drawn attention following action by Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) authorities.

The gathering included supporters and well-wishers who said they had assembled to express solidarity with the MP beyond party affiliations.

The protest comes amid a political confrontation over the allegations against Akoijam. The BJP has demanded his resignation on moral grounds, while the Congress has maintained that the law should take its own course.

The latest demonstration adds to the ongoing political exchanges between the BJP and Congress over the controversy, with Akoijam's supporters describing the criticism against him as politically motivated.