Protests in Ukhrul Against FMR Restrictions and AFSPA Reimposition: A Call for Peace and Justice
Summary
In Ukhrul, Manipur, hundreds of people, mainly from the Naga community, participated in a “Save the Peace” rally organized by the Tangkhul Shanao Long (Tangkhul Women’s League) and the Tangkhul Katamnao Long. The demonstration took place on November 15, 2024, to protest against the government’s imposition of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), border fencing, and restrictions on the Free Movement Regime (FMR). Participants expressed their concerns over these issues, calling for the repeal of AFSPA and greater respect for the unique Naga culture and rights.
Full Article
The peaceful rally in Ukhrul, led by the Tangkhul Shanao Long and Tangkhul Katamnao Long, was a significant demonstration of unity among the Naga community against what they perceive as government actions infringing on their autonomy and traditional rights. The march, which began at two different points — Kharasom Junction in Ukhrul and Dungrei Junction in Hungpung — culminated at the town’s central Wino Bazaar. This public gathering was not just a protest but a strong statement of the community’s ongoing struggle for justice and self-determination.
The Context of the Protest: AFSPA, Border Fencing, and FMR Restrictions
The primary concern voiced by the protestors was the reimposition of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA). This law, which grants sweeping powers to the armed forces, has been widely criticized for its potential to violate human rights. It allows security forces to arrest individuals without a warrant and use force, including lethal force, under the claim of maintaining public order. Many Naga activists and rights groups see AFSPA as a draconian measure that disproportionately impacts communities in the Northeast, leading to widespread human rights abuses.
Another issue at the forefront of the protest was the border fencing initiative between India and Myanmar, which many believe is an infringement on the Naga people’s historical cross-border ties. The Naga community has long had familial and cultural ties across the Indian and Myanmar border, and the fence is seen as a barrier to these bonds.
Furthermore, the protestors raised their voices against the Free Movement Regime (FMR) restrictions, a policy that limits the movement of people, particularly those living in border areas. These restrictions are seen as a further tightening of control over the Naga population, curbing their rights to travel freely between India and Myanmar.
Voices of the Protestors
Enoli Priscilla Thiumai, President of the Naga Women’s Union (NWU), passionately spoke out against AFSPA, condemning it as a “draconian law” that perpetuates human rights abuses. Her remarks echoed the frustrations of many who feel that such laws make communities vulnerable to military violence and arbitrary detention.
Vareiyo Shatsang, General Secretary of the United Naga Council (UNC), added his voice to the protest, describing the border fencing projects as an affront to the traditional rights of the Naga people. He argued that such projects disrupt the long-standing cross-border relations between the Naga tribes of India and Myanmar, causing unnecessary friction and tension.
The Call for Peace
Despite the serious nature of the protest, the rally maintained a tone of peace and unity. The demonstrators carried placards with messages like “Respect the Unique History of the Naga People” and “Save the Peace.” These slogans highlighted the peaceful aspirations of the protestors, who were advocating for the preservation of their cultural identity and autonomy in the face of policies that they believe threaten their way of life.
The march concluded with a collective pledge to resist the challenges posed by AFSPA, border fencing, and the FMR restrictions. The participants promised to continue their fight for justice and peace, emphasizing that their struggle was not just for the Naga community, but for all marginalized people in the region.
Implications and Future Prospects
The protest in Ukhrul is not an isolated incident. It reflects the growing discontent among various communities in Manipur and the broader Northeast region. The imposition of AFSPA, the construction of border fences, and the limitations on movement have fueled widespread resistance, particularly from indigenous groups who see these policies as an existential threat to their cultural and political rights.
As the protests continue to unfold, it will be interesting to see how the government responds. Historically, such rallies have been met with heavy-handed security responses, but the growing public pressure may prompt a more conciliatory approach. The question remains: will the government engage in dialogue with the protesters, or will the cycle of repression and resistance continue?
Conclusion: A Call for Dialogue and Reconciliation
The rally in Ukhrul serves as a poignant reminder of the tensions that simmer beneath the surface in Manipur. While the protestors have made their voices heard, it is crucial that the government takes these concerns seriously. AFSPA, border fencing, and FMR restrictions may continue to dominate the discourse in the region, but the solution lies in dialogue, mutual understanding, and respect for the rights of the people.
As the Naga community continues to march for peace and justice, one can only hope that their struggle will lead to a brighter, more inclusive future for all the people of Manipur.
FAQs
- What is the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA)? AFSPA is a law that grants the Indian Army and other forces the authority to maintain public order in “disturbed areas,” often leading to controversial military actions.
- Why are the Naga people protesting the border fencing? The Naga people are protesting the border fencing because they view it as an infringement on their historical and familial ties with communities across the India-Myanmar border.
- What are the Free Movement Regime (FMR) restrictions? FMR restrictions limit the movement of people in border areas, particularly affecting the Naga community’s ability to travel freely between India and Myanmar.
- Who organized the protest in Ukhrul? The protest was organized by the Tangkhul Shanao Long (Tangkhul Women’s League) and the Tangkhul Katamnao Long, a student union of the Tangkhul Naga community.
- What was the message behind the protest’s placards? The placards called for respect for Naga culture and history, the repeal of AFSPA, and a halt to the border fencing projects that disrupt cross-border relations.
