Manipur: Security forces halt Senapati-bound peace rally in Sekmai

The peace rally organized by the Federation of Civil Societies (FOCS) witnessed a significant gathering at the Kangla Northern Gate in Imphal on Friday morning. 

The rally, aimed at promoting peace, saw the participation of hundreds of people, including several Meira Lup members. 
The rally was flagged off at around 8:50 AM, with participants intending to march towards Senapati. 
However, police intervened right from the starting point, citing the lack of necessary permissions. 

Despite the restrictions, some participants managed to reach Sekmai, but were again stopped by security forces at Sekmai Pangaltabi, preventing them from moving further.

The peace rally was coincided with the Centre’s planned for the resumption of free movement on the highway. High-ranking police convinced the volunteers of the FOCS’ to participate in free movement initiated by the government if they want to bound Senapati instead of going separately as peace rally.

However, members of FOCS denied as free movement means travel for anybody and they be allowed to go in the vehicles arranged by them. 

FOCS’ President T Manihar while taking to media said "The purpose of the peace rally is to bring peace in the state. If the Government is not in a position to allow free movement of public, what is the need for making the announcement? The assurance given by the central government for giving protection and security should be the enough testament for any kind of movement."

While authorities justified the halt on procedural grounds, the large turnout underscored the widespread support for the rally’s message of peace.

It may be mentioned that public bus service was resumed under security cover from today onwards.

Also Read: Meitei Alliance, Thadou Inpi demand NRC implementation in Manipur