By NE NOW NEWS
Imphal: Women activists from Keishamthong constituency in Manipur’s Imphal West district on Monday submitted a memorandum to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla seeking the immediate release of former members of Arambai Tenggol arrested recently by security agencies.
The memorandum was submitted by the Apunba Meira Paibi Lup, which also warned of prolonged agitation if its demand is not met.
Speaking to reporters, the organisation’s representative, Thokchom Chandrasakhi Devi, said members had intended to meet the Governor in person but were informed that a prior appointment was required. The memorandum was later submitted to the Raj Bhavan.
Chandrasakhi Devi said Arambai Tenggol is a socio-cultural organisation formed to protect the identity of the Meitei community. She claimed members had surrendered illegal weapons in response to a government appeal issued on February 20 last year and alleged that the process was undertaken with the understanding that no member would be arrested in connection with past incidents.
The group alleged that several former members were arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) during operations carried out between June 18 and 19 and claimed that arrest memos were not provided during the raids.
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.
The women’s organisation warned that it would intensify its agitation if further arrests of former Arambai Tenggol members continue.