SAPO mulls harsher measures if the government of Manipur fails to respond. The organisation has been demanding withdrawal of security forces from the “disputed area” of Kezoltsa
By Imna Longchar, TFM Nagaland Correspondent
Reminding that the Manipur government had failed to address the issue of withdrawing its security forces from the “disputed area” of Kezoltsa, Southern Angami Public Organization (SAPO) on Monday began its three-day bandh.
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When contacted, SAPO president Kevipodi Sophie informed this correspondent that the first day of the bandh passed peacefully.
On being questioned about the public inconvenience caused wherein many Manipur bound passenger vehicles were stranded at the Phesama Police Check post, Sophie informed that the SP who visited the site of the bandh had informed him that the stranded passengers were redirected to Jalukie-Peren-Maram route for their onward journey.
He reiterated SAPO’s stand on the issue and said that on the first day of the bandh, there was no response from the Manipur government but would wait till March 23. “If there is still no response the following two days, SAPO will be left with no other option but to go for “harsher steps”. “If Manipur government wants to negotiate with us, we are ready anytime” says SAPO President.
Sophie told this correspondent that if the Manipur government takes note of the situation, and if they want to “negotiate”, SAPO was ready for it anytime.
While expressing “pity” over those who were stranded because of the bandh, SAPO president said that there was no other “option” but to go ahead with the bandh. It may be mentioned that on November 20 last, different organizations had submitted joint representation to the Manipur Chief Minister, but till date Manipur government has ignored and failed to “honour” and address the issue.