Imphal (Manipur), July 7: In a rare show of unity, members of the Naga and Meitei communities staged a joint mass sit-in at Khwairamband Ema Keithel on Tuesday, demanding justice for those killed in the ongoing conflict and immediate government intervention.
Organised by the FNCC, the protest saw participants from both communities raise slogans including “Long Live Manipur” and “Stop Arresting the Village Volunteers.”
FNCC Convenor Akhiyu, addressing the gathering, said the demonstration was held to seek justice for lives lost from both sides. He condemned the ongoing search operations and arrests of village volunteers, stating they were protecting their land and people.
“Those responsible for the violence must be identified and booked. Without justice, there can be no lasting peace in Manipur,” Akhiyu said.
He urged the state government to convene the Monsoon Session of the Assembly at the earliest to discuss the hardships faced by the people. He warned that failure to address public grievances seriously would lead to greater dissatisfaction.
Protesters called for accountability, peace, and solidarity, saying both communities have suffered due to the prolonged conflict.
The joint sit-in at one of Imphal’s busiest markets highlighted growing calls for collective action and dialogue to restore normalcy in the state.
