IMPHAL, Oct 5: Social activist Malem Thongam, a transgender rights activist, on Friday announced plans to stage a suicide protest in front of the Chief Minister’s bungalow on Saturday, demanding the restoration of peace in Manipur and the withdrawal of 10 Kuki-Zo MLAs from the N. Biren Singh-led government. Thongam issued a 15-day ultimatum, which expired on October 3, stating that if her demands are not met, she will proceed with the protest.
Speaking to reporters in Soibam Leikai, Imphal East, Thongam expressed frustration with the government’s inaction, holding the 45 ruling MLAs of the BJP responsible for the ongoing violence and unrest in the state. She accused Kuki-Zo militants of attacking Meitei villages since May 3, resulting in numerous deaths and missing individuals. Thongam also claimed that these acts of violence are being supported by the 10 Kuki-Zo MLAs, who have been pushing for a ‘separate administration.’
Thongam, who previously submitted a four-point memorandum to Chief Minister N. Biren Singh through the Bishnupur district Deputy Commissioner, has called for immediate action against the 10 Kuki-Zo MLAs. She questioned why the BJP-led government has been unable to take action against them and criticized the decision to allow two Kuki-Zo ministers to remain in the Cabinet.
On September 27, the activist filed two RTI applications addressed to Chief Minister Biren Singh and state BJP president A. Sharda Devi, demanding an explanation for the government’s failure to address the escalating violence. Thongam specifically questioned the reasons behind the government’s reluctance to take “concrete steps” to resolve the unrest.
Serving the ultimatum, Thongam has threatened to commit suicide in front of the Chief Minister’s residence if her demands are not addressed. “If I succeed in staging the protest, all 45 MLAs of the Biren-led government would be solely responsible,” she warned.
With no positive response from the government as of the 14th day, Thongam reiterated her commitment to protest for the sake of Manipur, emphasizing her readiness to act for the state’s peace.
