Ruling and opposition MLAs in Manipur convene joint meeting to address the disappearance of two Meitei youths

Sources said that the meeting, chaired by Chief Minister N Biren Singh, aimed to find ways for the safe release of the missing youths

IMPHAL, Sep 29: In a rare show of unity, ruling and opposition MLAs in Manipur convened a joint meeting today to address the disappearance of two Meitei youths.

Sources said that the meeting, chaired by Chief Minister N Biren Singh, aimed to find ways for the safe release of the missing youths.

However, the details of the meeting are still not disclosed as no official statement has been released to the media in this connection.

Notably, three youths had gone missing on Friday evening while reportedly en route to join an army recruitment rally at New Keithelmanbi, an adjoining area of Meitei villages and Kuki villages.

One of the youths was reportedly rescued by the Army, but the other two are still missing as they are believed to have been abducted by Kuki militants.

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Meanwhile, Chief Minister Biren condemned the abduction, stating that the government condemned “such heinous acts” and is working to secure the safe release of the victims.

In his official social media handle, Biren wrote, “Held a meeting with all the MLAs from both the Ruling and Opposition parties at my Secretariat today”.

Held a meeting with all the MLAs from both the Ruling and Opposition parties at my Secretariat, today. Addressed the current situation in the state particularly focusing on the rescue of the abduction of two innocent youths by Kuki militants. We condemn such heinous acts and… pic.twitter.com/VV8bYklfrq

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Meanwhile, a public meeting pertaining to the incident was held at Thoubal Leishanghtem Awang Leikai, where a Joint Action Committee (JAC) was formed to press for the youths’ safe release.

The meeting decided to submit a memorandum, highlighting the details of the incident to the Manipur Governor and Chief Minister.

JAC convener L Subol sought the cooperation of civil society organisations and people of the state to ensure the safe release of the missing youths.

The All Manipur United Clubs’ Organization (AMUCO) has also warned the Union Home Minister, the Manipur Security Advisor and the DGP that they should be held responsible if any harm is meted out to the missing youths.

He also termed the abduction “terrorism” and criticized the Central forces for failing to locate the missing youths.