Women activists from Keishamthong constituency on Monday strongly condemned the recent arrests of former members of Arambai Tenggol and submitted a memorandum to Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla demanding their immediate and unconditional release.
The memorandum was submitted by the Apunba Meira Paibi Lup, which warned that it would launch various forms of agitation if the government failed to meet its demands.
Speaking to the media after submitting the memorandum, organisation representative Thokchom Chandrasakhi Devi said members had intended to meet the Governor personally. However, officials reportedly informed them that a prior appointment was required, following which the memorandum was submitted to the Governor’s office.
Chandrasakhi Devi claimed that Arambai Tenggol is not an armed organisation but a socio-cultural body formed to protect the identity and interests of the Meitei community. She alleged that the failure of authorities to effectively maintain law and order had compelled members of the organisation to step forward to protect the public.
Referring to the surrender of weapons by Arambai Tenggol members, she said youths possessing illegal arms had complied with the government directive issued on February 20 last year and surrendered their weapons. She further alleged that the surrender was carried out with the understanding that members would not face arrest for past incidents.
The women’s organisation alleged that despite this understanding, several former members were arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) during late-night operations conducted between June 18 and 19.
They claimed that the arrests were carried out from the individuals’ residences and that arrest memos were not provided at the time.
Demanding immediate release of those detained, Chandrasakhi Devi warned that protests would be intensified if the action against former Arambai Tenggol members continued.
According to reports, those arrested include Mutum Naoba (31) of Oinam Mamang Leikai, Haorokcham Manaocha (29) of Kangchup Sanjenbam Mayai Leikai, and Kangabam Somanand (42) of Tangkham Leikai. The arrests were reportedly made as part of an ongoing investigation by security agencies.
