IMPHAL, May 20: A prayer day was held by displaced persons affected by the 2013 forced eviction of Naga Nullah Kabo Leikai at Langol Tarung village today.
The prayer presided over by Rev. L Timothy Phaomei (former Pastor of MBC Church) and Rev. Akan Kamei was held at EP Centre Conference Hall, residential compound of JAC co-convenor Panti Gonmi at Tarung Village, Thangmeiband near RNBA House.
It may be recalled here that, on this day in 2013 altogether 30 families residing near the Naga Nullah were evicted by the district authorities.
As part of the observance, they prayed for peace to be ushered in the state and justice for the victims of the eviction.
In his speech, Rev. Phaomei appealed to all section of the societies to stand against evil, falsehood and instead help in building a paradise.
Panti Gonmei said, victim families have been observing this day as ‘Law Breaking Day’ to mark the ‘forced eviction’ of residents in 2013.
She said, the State government had deployed hundreds of police personnel and several structures of the village including places of worship were demolished that day.
On February 19, 2012, the High Court of Manipur had passed an order asking the authorities to maintain status quo, she said.
Despite the standing order of the court, the concerned authorities came and threatened the villagers to vacate, she claimed.
She said the evicted families are today suffering immense misery due to the senseless act of the government.
She further expressed hope that considering the grievances of the people, the authorities will not conduct any more of such irresponsible acts in the future.