March 13, 2025: Women from ten different localities staged a sit-in protest at Keishampat Leimajam Leikai, Imphal West, on Thursday, voicing strong opposition to the arrest of ‘village volunteers’ by security forces. The demonstrators called for the restoration of peace and urged the authorities to ensure the safe return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their homes.
The protest, which saw participation from a significant number of women, was part of a broader wave of demonstrations taking place across the valley. Protesters emphasized the critical role played by village volunteers in safeguarding their communities, particularly in the face of ongoing security concerns.
A participant in the protest reiterated that these volunteers had been instrumental in protecting their people from external threats. She demanded their immediate release and pressed for urgent measures to facilitate the rehabilitation of displaced families.
Similar protests were reported in multiple locations, reflecting growing public concern over the situation.
