Feb 24, 2025 : Protests broke out in Senjam Khunou, located in Imphal West, as local Meira Paibi groups from surrounding villages staged a sit-in, denouncing the imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur.
The protesters called for the immediate formation of a state government and demanded that no arrests be made of village volunteers.
Speaking to the media, Yumnam Ibemcha, a women’s leader, emphasized the crucial role played by village volunteers in safeguarding civilians amid ongoing conflicts.
She pointed out that these volunteers have stepped in where security forces have failed, particularly in protecting the community from narco-terrorist groups that have been operating in the region.
“The village volunteers have been our shield, protecting us when the security forces couldn’t,” Ibemcha asserted. “They are the ones who keep us safe from the constant threat of narco-terrorists. The people of Manipur have suffered enough.”
The ongoing crisis, which began in May 2023, has left villagers in Senjam Khunou enduring sleepless nights, fearing sudden attacks from narco-terrorists despite a temporary ceasefire in recent days, she said, adding that villagers remain on edge, with the fear that hostilities could reignite at any moment.
“We don’t want President’s Rule,” Ibemcha continued. “We want our state government to be formed at the earliest. The situation is dire, and the people of Manipur deserve better.”
As tensions persist, the demand for a functional state government and greater protection for the people of Manipur remains at the forefront of public discourse.a
