Ima Market vendors question Manipur BJP chief’s silence on Nongshum killings, demand resignation

Women vendors at Khwairamband Ima Market in Imphal on October 19 criticised Manipur BJP president and Rajya Sabha MP A Sharda Devi for her alleged silence over the killing of three civilians at Nongshum in Imphal East district, questioning why she had spoken out against Congress MP Angomcha Bimol Akoijam over sexual harassment allegations but had not publicly condemned the latest attack.

The protest came after three Meitei civilians collecting firewood were killed and at least four others injured when armed assailants allegedly opened fire on a group of villagers near Nongshum and Khongbal Tangkhul village, along the Imphal East–Kangpokpi district boundary, at around 9.30 am on Monday.

Addressing the media, Laishram Memma, a leader of Nupi Keithel at Khwairamband Bazar, expressed anguish over the killings and questioned Sharda Devi’s response to the incident.

Memma said residents had earlier felt safer when cadres of the United National Liberation Front (UNLF-Pambei faction) were present in the area. She claimed that people had protested against the government's decision to remove them, following assurances that central security forces would protect residents.

However, the latest attack had raised fresh concerns about civilian safety, she said, questioning the effectiveness of the security arrangements.

Memma also criticised Sharda Devi for not speaking out against the killings despite condemnation from various sections of society.

“Where has the MP Sharda gone when people are dying? When allegations against Bimol Akoijam emerged, that too was not a final judgment; she was very active and even led the protest,” Memma said, questioning the difference in the MP's response to the two incidents.

She demanded Sharda Devi’s resignation as a Rajya Sabha MP, accusing her of remaining silent while civilians were being killed.

The controversy comes amid political tensions surrounding sexual harassment allegations involving Congress MP Bimol Akoijam in connection with a complaint at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). The allegations remain distinct from the killings in Imphal East.

The attack has triggered public outrage in Manipur, with protests reported at several locations. In Imphal, grieving residents brought the bodies of two victims to the entrance of Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh’s official residence, demanding accountability and stronger security measures.

Protesters also blocked roads at Khurai Lamlong, calling for immediate steps to prevent further attacks on civilians.

The killings have intensified demands for enhanced security in vulnerable areas, particularly along routes used by residents to access forests and collect firewood for their daily needs.

Sharda Devi’s response to the criticism was not available at the time of publication.