Newmai News Network
Imphal | October 13
United Front, Manipur (UFM) on Wednesday expressed concerns over the recent poll-related violence reported in Manipur.
Scores of people were injured in a series of gun firing and clashes among the workers and supporters of rival intending candidates in Thoubal, Imphal West and Imphal East districts on October 10 and October 11.
While expressing concern over the violent incidents, UFM chairman Sapam Samungou asked whether it was a sign of improving the law and order situation in the state which the BJP-led coalition is repeatedly claiming.
UFM is a conglomeration of four political parties – Republican Party of India (A), Manipur State Committee, Democratic Bharatiya Samaj Party, Hindustan Janta Party, Manipur State and Akhil Bharatiya Hind Kranti Party (ABHKP).
Speaking at a function at Manipur Press Club, Imphal, Samugou expressed concern about the violence and questioned the basis on which the state government is claiming that the law and order situation has improved in the state.
He said that scores of people were injured in poll-related clashes involving gun firings in as many as five Assembly constituencies.
"Election is a democratic process in which people elect their representatives through adult franchise. People should be allowed to cast their votes for candidates of their choice," said the UFM leader. "However, in Manipur, elections are like a battlefield. It is very unfortunate and candidates should be held responsible for such violent clashes,” he also said. "At the same time, police should also take up appropriate actions by lodging suo-moto cases. All responsible persons should not be spared," Samungou demanded. He then added, "If not, it would be hard to curb such unfortunate incidents in future".
Assembly election in Manipur is due early next year.
