DIMAPUR, NOV 29 (MExN): Raising serious concern over the deaths and injuries caused by landmines at Manipur’s Churachandpur district, Lok Sabha MP from Outer Manipur Mani Charenamai has drawn the attention of the Prime Minister, Defence Minister and Home Minister. The UPA leaders have been impressed upon to order a detailed enquiry into the matter and to issue strict instructions to the O Ibobi government so as to “take up immediate necessary action to sanitize the District from the terrorizing underground elements.”
Referring to an article carried in the North East Sun where it was stated that many had been maimed and some had died as a result of landmine explosions planted by Imphal valley based insurgents who had taken shelter in remote tribal villages located in the district, the MP said, “The undergrounds have been planting land mines in and around the villages they occupied to prevent anyone from entering the villages or leaving the villages.” As many as six land mine explosions have occurred since November 25, 2004. The latest explosion was reported on November 21 last. All of these incidents are said to have detonated in the interior areas of of Churachandpur district. Altogether, 4 people have reportedly been killed and 20 injured as a result of the blasts.
According to him, no appropriate action has been taken by the Manipur government and the villagers have been left virtually paralyzed and helpless.
