Rallies taken out in Manipur to support Naga peace process

Imphal, May 13 (UNI) Four massive rallies, organised by United Naga Council (UNC) and All Naga Students' Association Manipur (ANSAM) were taken out in four districts of Manipur today, to support the peace initiatives taken up between Union government and NSCN (IM).

The rallies were taken out at the district headquarters of Senapati, Tamenglong, Ukhrul and Chandel.

Placards, festoons were carried by the rallyists. Security was beefed up in the state due to the rallies. However, no untoward incident took place.

The next round of talks between the NSCN (IM) and the Centre would be held from May 18.

The organisers said the rally was organised to support the peace process and unification of Naga areas.

Representatives of Naga Hoho Naga Students bodies, Naga People's Movement for Human Rights and other bodies also took part in the rallies. The organisers estimated that more than 50,000 people took part in the rallies.

A memorandum will be submitted to the Prime Minister by the organisers, it added. The rallies had faced some problems as the NSCN (K) the other NSCN faction had appealed people to support the rallies as it alleged that the rallies were taken out at the behest of the NSCN(IM), the UNC and ANSAM.

The Christian leaders will also hold special prayers on Sunday.

UNI NS JYN KLC/DB1627