EXCLUSIVE
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Hundreds of kilometers away from their home state of Manipur, the Meitei community in Shillong is alarmed by reports of weaponized drones being used to attack security forces and civilians in their homeland. In a show of solidarity and concern, the Manipuri Elders’ Consortium Shillong (MECS) organized a protest on Sunday at Manipuri Rajbari, Redlands, Boyce Road, Shillong, condemning the aerial bombings targeting Meitei villages on the outskirts of Manipur.
The protesters carried placards with messages such as, “Restore Internet in Imphal Valley,” “Stop Narco Terrorism,” “Stop Killing Innocent Meiteis,” “Stop Shelling Meitei Villages,” “Safeguard Indigenous Communities of Manipur,” “Expedite Indo-Myanmar Border Fencing,” and “Protect Meitei Civilians.” The community plans to write to the central government, urging immediate intervention and support for the affected population.
MECS President N. Munish Singh emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “We urge the government and the people to ensure the safety of the villagers. After this protest, we will send letters to the Prime Minister’s Office and the President’s Office, as we have done in the past, to ensure that proper action is taken for the safety of our Meitei brothers and sisters in the affected villages.”
Singh also highlighted the peaceful coexistence between the Kuki and Meitei communities in Shillong. “The relationship between Kukis and Meiteis in Shillong has been very cordial, and no untoward incidents have occurred. Last year, there were some issues among students, but they were resolved through discussions led by the Elders. The situation here is under control, and Shillong serves as a positive example,” he said.
The protest comes as the ethnic conflict in Manipur stretches into its 16th month, claiming more than 250 lives, injuring many others, and displacing over 60,000 people. Singh called on the government to take swift measures to restore peace in Manipur.
Amid the unrest, the Manipur government has also implemented a temporary internet ban as protests continue.