In a significant turn of events on Tuesday, Meira Paibis, a collective of Meitei women, took to the streets in protest, halting traffic in Kumbi, Bishnupur District, Manipur. Their action came in response to the arrest of ten members of the village defence force by the 2nd Mahar Regiment of the Indian Army on Monday evening.
The tensions escalated as Meira Paibis, numbering in the hundreds, converged near the Moirang police station the following morning, effectively blocking the road. Eyewitnesses captured scenes of a vehicle being strategically positioned to impede an army convoy.
What followed was a prolonged confrontation between the protestors and Indian Army officials, lasting several hours. Despite the army’s attempts to disperse the crowd, including firing blanks, their efforts proved futile against the determined protestors.
Reports indicate that the pressure exerted by Meira Paibis eventually led to the release of the arrested village defence group members. However, conflicting narratives emerge regarding the identity of those detained, with some claiming they were part of the village defence force while others suggest affiliation with the People’s Liberation Army.
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As of the time of reporting, no official statement has been issued regarding the incident, leaving the community in Bishnupur District on edge amid questions and concerns about the events that transpired.
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