Manipur: After CorCom, SOREPA calls for strike on October 15
Imphal: The Socialist Revolutionary Party (SOREPA), Kangleipak also called for a 12-hour general strike on October 15 protesting the forcible merger of Manipur to the Indian Union in 1949.
According to a statement issued by publicity secretary, MC Yaiphabi, "The annexation of Manipur, a princely nation, occurred when the then King of Manipur Maharaja Bodhachandra was coerced into signing an agreement under extreme pressure in 1949 in Shillong (Meghalaya).'
The group stated that the general strike, however, will not cover movement relating to the emergency services including fire services, electricity, medical, religious ceremonies, and media.
The secretary also stated that SOREPA will extend support to the general strike, total shutdown, or boycott call of other revolutionary groups of Western South East Asia (WESEA) on the said day.
The outfit accused India of using the Armed Forces (Special Power) Act (AFSPA) to prevent self-determination and suppress rising consciousness among the people of the region, who increasingly recognized the occupation of their lands.
It further alleged that Indian forces, along with mercenaries, are responsible for widespread atrocities, including killings and disappearances.
It also claimed that Chin-Kuki mercenaries, allegedly supported by India, have been involved in violent acts that threaten the future of Manipur.
It may also be noted that the Coordination Committee (CorCom), an apex body of six banned outlawed, called a 12-hour total shutdown on October 15 from 6 am in Manipur.