Abduction and killing of SDO in Manipur agitate residents

Imphal, Feb.25 (ANI): Indefinite curfew was clamped recently in Imphal following protests over the abduction and killing of Sub Divisional Officer (SDO) of Kasom Khullen, a sub-division of Ukhrul district.

Six people were kidnapped, including Thingnam Kishan, the SDO, his driver A, Rajen, and one other person of his staff. Their bodies were located after three days at Taphou in Senapati district. The remaining three other persons-a peon of the SDO office and two other workers-- are yet to be traced.

The incident drew wide condemnation.

The Manipur Cabinet decided to hand over the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

The families of the victims have been shocked.

"According to what was told to us, the militants wanted to talk about financial matters and release them after the discussions. There were no other reasons," said Ronibala Devi, wife of A.Rajen Sharma, one victim.

Though primarily the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) (NSCN) (IM) is suspected to be behind the incident, the outfit, however, has denied having anything to do with the killings or abduction.

The incident has been condemned by organizations like the United Committee Manipur, which has submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister.

Recently, the Joint Action Committee also called for a 'Bandh' in Imphal, which paralyzed normal life in the State.

All business establishments, schools, colleges, banks and were closed and transport services came to a halt.

Additional security forces have been deployed in Nagamapal kangjabi Leirak, Uripok Khoisnam Leikai and Yumnam Leikai, the region where the deceased came from.

"They have been killed brutally. We want to live together peacefully. What has happened is really bad " said Dini Devi, protestor.

"We have been living together as brothers but we are killing each other. I do not approve this," said O. Ibemu Devi, protestor.

Also, the conglomerate of various Kuki underground organizations, the United People's Front has strongly condemned the murder of SDO and two members of his staff.

Meitei Christians have take up the campaign against the culture of violence in Manipur, and have appealed to all civil society organizations to work towards restoring peace and harmony among different tribes and communities of the state.

A curfew was clamped in Imphal and Greater Imphal.

" We do not like to impose curfew for a very long period. But at the moment we are watching the situation. At the moment it is indefinite but we will review this everyday," said A. Ibocha Singh, Deputy Commissioner in Imphal.

Abduction and killing for ransom have increased recently. People are worried that incidents this affect not only the development work but disrupt normal life as well. (ANI)