In a strong display of dissent, womenfolks from Churachandpur district held a candlelight vigil this evening to protest against the central government’s proposed move to transfer the 9 Assam Rifles Battalion from the periphery of the district. The protest, which took place at Pholjang and Kangvai villages near the border with Bishnupur district, saw hundreds of women gathering to voice their disapproval of what they consider an arbitrary and unjust decision.
The demonstrators carried placards with messages such as “Replacing AR Isn’t a Solution,” “The Meitei Militants are the Problem; Not the Indian Armies,” and “Remove Arambai Tenggol/Meitei Leepun, not Security Forces.” Their protest reflects widespread concern over the potential replacement of the seasoned 9 Assam Rifles Battalion with the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).
The protest was organized by the Gothol Area Defence Committee.
A joint press statement issued by women’s organizations such as the Kuki Women Union, Hmar Women Association, Zomi Mothers’ Association, and Mizo People Convention Women Wing, strongly opposed the government’s decision. The statement emphasized the pivotal role that the Assam Rifles has played in maintaining peace and neutrality in the conflict-ridden region, particularly between the two warring communities in Churachandpur.
The organizations criticized the proposed replacement of the Assam Rifles with the CRPF, citing the latter’s lack of local knowledge and experience in handling the delicate socio-political dynamics of the region. They expressed particular concern over the appointment of Deputy Inspector General (Operations) Premjit Huidrom, a Meitei, to lead the CRPF in the area, questioning whether the force under his leadership can be impartial and trusted to ensure the safety of all communities.
The women’s groups warned that removing the Assam Rifles could destabilize the fragile peace in Churachandpur and lead to a deterioration of the security situation. They urged the government to reconsider its decision, stressing that the continued presence of the Assam Rifles is essential for maintaining stability and preventing further bloodshed.
“If the government persists in this ill-considered decision, we will not remain silent observers,” the statement read. “We are prepared to mobilize and undertake all necessary measures to ensure that our voices are heard and that justice prevails.”
The protesters called on the government to work towards a solution that ensures lasting peace and security for all communities in Manipur, regardless of caste, creed, or community.
The protest was attended by various CSOs including the Kuki Students’ Organization Churachanpur.
