Churachandpur, February 12: Hundreds of women under the banner of the Vaiphei Women’s Association (VWA) staged a sit-in protest in Churachandpur, opposing the involvement of MLA LM Khaute in the formation of the newly installed popular government in Manipur.
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| Members of the Vaiphei Women’s Association march in Lamka during a sit-in protest against MLA LM Khaute over his decision to join the Manipur government. |
Despite stiff opposition from the Central Village Defence Force and the Zomi Mothers' Association, the sit-in protest at the Vaiphei Community Centre in the Bethel area of New Lamka went ahead as planned. Protesters labelled the MLA, who belongs to the Vaiphei community, a “betrayer” and “traitor,” alleging that he had compromised the trust placed in him by the people.
The demonstrators later marched towards Khaute’s residence at Thangzam Road in Lamka, accusing him of betraying the people’s mandate by joining the government led by Yumnam Khemchand Singh. They expressed strong resentment over his decision, describing it as a disregard for community sentiments.
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A heavy security presence was deployed as the women advanced toward his residence. A brief scuffle reportedly broke out between protesters and security personnel, after which security forces resorted to tear gas shelling to prevent the crowd from entering the premises.
A spokesperson of the Vaiphei Women’s Association said the protest was organised to register firm opposition to Khaute’s decision, calling it a betrayal of community trust.
