“End violence, spread peace” appeal Manipur Christians

Imphal – Taking note of the the growing violence erupting in the north east state of India, manipur, the All Manipur Christian Association (AMCA) has urged Home Minister Shivraj Patil to intervene to stop atrocities on innocent people by the security forces.

In a public statement, it said the people of Manipur were constantly facing excesses of the security forces in their daily lives.

Many civilians lost their lives in counter insurgency operations and many were arbitrarily arrested, detained and tortured to death, hampering the free movement of the people since the imposition of the Armed Forces Special Power Act (AFSPA), the association said.

It cited the custodial death of Thangjam Manorama Devi by the 17th Assam Rifles personnel which had triggered off an agitation in the state.

The AMCA alleged that nine villagers of Tamenglong village, including two meitei chilly traders, were killed by the Army in December 2000.

It drew the attention of Mr Patil to the killing of pastor Jamkholet Khongsai allegedly by the 21 Assam Rifles personnel.

Expressing anguish and unhappiness over the brutal killings, the AMCA demanded an end to all forms of violence and barbarous activities.