Imphal: Around 150 lawyers and advocates from the All Manipur Bar Association (AMBA) staged a sit-in protest here on Friday, expressing their concerns over the ongoing crisis in Manipur. The protest, themed “One Nation One State, Stop Divide and Rule Policy,” aimed to bring attention to the escalating issues in the state.
Puyam Tomcha Meetei, President of AMBA, condemned what he described as the genocide of Meiteis in Manipur’s hill districts, citing the burning and destruction of Meitei homes and the forced displacement of Meitei communities.
Tomcha criticized the central government for its perceived inaction, despite acknowledging external aggression in parliamentary sessions. He pointed out the discrepancy wherein law and order are state matters, yet illegal immigration falls under central jurisdiction.
Tomcha expressed concern that the government’s narrative fosters divisions between Meitei and Kuki communities, perpetuating ongoing violence and a divide-and-rule strategy, particularly evident in places like Jiribam.
Khaidem Mani, former Chairman of the Manipur Human Rights Commission (MHRC) and senior lawyer, described Manipur as being in a state of “suspended animation,” likening it to a frozen or dead state. He criticized the state government, alleging that major decisions are being directed by the Director General of Police (DGP) and the security advisor under the central Home Ministry’s guidance.
Mani highlighted a recent high-level security meeting in Delhi, noting the conspicuous absence of Chief Minister Biren while the Chief Secretary, security advisor, and DGP participated. He argued that as the head of the executive, the Chief Minister should have been included, emphasizing that the Chief Minister also heads the state’s security and home department.
