Militants targeting even the brick kiln factories in Manipur

Imphal, Oct.25 : Irrespective of their profession, Manipuris are getting tired of violent acts of militants.

There is barely any place in the State, which has been able to remain unaffected by the activities of militants. All sections of the population--businessmen, medical professionals, teachers, students and even poor farmers and labourers-have been affected.

The recent target of militants' was a brick kiln factory. They have demanded a huge amount of money from its owner. But the workers in an attempt to voice their personal concern decided to stage a protest.

Hundreds of brick kiln workers of SDS brick kiln, located at Lamdeng Khunou near Imphal went for a sit in protest against the illogical demands of militant groups. The workers wanted militants to withdraw their demand for huge money from the kiln owners.

The protestors complained that despite having knowledge that the owners lacked the means to fulfill the militants' demand, the militants were trying to squeeze out whatever they could.

Y. Prameshwori Devi, a brick kiln worker, said: "Seeing that our employer is really disturbed, we all have decided to come out and protest so that we can resume our work in peace in future. We want the militants to withdraw their demand."

Sobita Devi, another kiln worker, said: "It's really difficult for us. We have been deprived of our work, and are unable to earn our daily wage. It has become difficult for us to survive."

This is just one example of the impact that militancy has had on the lives of the people in Manipur.

It is almost impossible for development projects to show results in Manipur. Although militants claim to be public's well-wishers, they are not leaving much room for the common man to survive.

People want the menace of militancy to be curbed to enable the State to develop and move forward on the path of progress.

Ronibala Devi, a member of the local Women Association, said: "The demands made by the militants have no justification. This brick-field is a small initiative and demanding money from the kiln owners is wrong. We oppose such demands. "

The news reports about an assassination bid to Chief Minister Ibobi Singh, second time within a few months, has also added to public angst here.

According to police reports, a bomb thrown by suspected militants exploded outside the CM's official residence. The attack is believed to be a desperate attempt by some militant outfits who have been feeling the heat of action against them by the state police.

ANI