Imphal: The Meitei diasporas in Americas under the aegis of the Association of Meteis in the Americas (AMA) will organise a ‘momentous peace demonstration’ at Lafayette Park near the White House on June 22 against the ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur.
Interestingly, this is the time when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be on an official visit to the United States where he will lead the celebrations of the International Day of Yoga at the United Nations Headquarters. Later he will also address a joint session of the Congress.
Many people in Manipur including politicians, civil society organisations have been accusing the Prime Minister of not bothering and uttering a single word on the violence which has claimed nearly 200 lives and nearly thousands got injured so far.
“We wholeheartedly encourage all concerned individuals, community leaders, and supporters to stand together as we collectively express our solidarity against the ongoing violence in Manipur, India – our beloved birthplace and motherland,” a statement of the Association said on Sunday.
While strongly condemning the killing of Meitei villagers and burning of their homes, Hindu temples and Meitei churches by Kuki militants and their affiliated organsations, the Association said in the wake of the ongoing conflict that erupted on May 3, 2023, Manipur is facing an unprecedented crisis. Over a hundred killed, and thousands of displaced people are taking shelter in 350 relief camps with limited resources such as food, water and healthcare.
The entire Manipuri population of 3.5 million lives in constant fear, anger, and anxiety about their future. The violence persists, exacerbating the suffering and trauma experienced by the people, the association added.
The peace demonstration at Lafayette Park is not just a mere gathering but a powerful symbol of unity, compassion, and hope. We aim to create a platform where the voices of the oppressed are amplified, and the world can witness the resilience and determination of the Meitei community in the face of adversity, it concluded.
