Thousands protest against Assam Rifles in Akharul, demand cancellation of AFSPA

Protest Against Assam Rifles

Akharul: A huge crowd thronged Manipur’s Akharul district headquarters on Thursday and took part in a mega peace rally against the alleged forced deployment of Assam Rifles in nine villages of Akharul and Kamjong districts.

Organized by the civil societies of the Tangkhal community, the protesters demanded the immediate withdrawal of the Assam Rifles camps established in their village and the repeal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958.

The peace rally began at 10:30 am from two locations-Mission ground, Hunphun and Dungrei junction, Hungpung and converged at Ava Market (Mothers’ Market) at Phungreitang.

Slogans like ‘Go back Indian Army’, ‘We will never surrender’, ‘We want peace, not war,’ and ‘Democracy our right’ were heard during the protests.
According to Tangkhul Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), public places such as playgrounds, schools and children’s homes and community halls are being used as camps by the Assam Rifles, thereby disrupting their normal functioning. Additionally, security check posts have been set up, and locals are being scrutinized as they go about their lives.
“This is not only a blatant folly of the current administration of the land but also a disregard for people’s fears,” the CSOs said.

He further alleged that private spaces have also been spared as constructions are being carried out on private properties with complete disregard for their ownership.
Besides, women and children especially face the fear arising from this unnecessary situation in the guise of IFSP, 1958.

In addition, according to CSOs, elderly people still recovering from trauma caused by army violence are being targeted everywhere.