A group of supporters and local party members staged a peaceful sit-in protest on Monday near the gate of Churachandpur Medical College, demanding justice in connection with the case of late Manipur BJP MLA Vungzagin Valte.
The demonstration was organised by the BJP Thanlon Mandal and began around 11 a.m. Protesters, including several women, gathered outside the medical college carrying placards calling for justice and accountability.
Messages displayed on the placards included “Assembly resumes, justice still waiting,” “Justice for Vungzagin Valte,” and “Democracy demands justice.”
Protest Linked to 2023 Attack
According to organisers, the protest was held to highlight the absence of progress in the case involving Valte, who served as the MLA from Thanlon Assembly constituency in Manipur’s Churachandpur district.
Valte was reportedly attacked on May 4, 2023, on RIMS Road in Imphal. Supporters claim the attack was carried out by members associated with Arambai Tenggol.
At the time of the incident, Valte was also serving as an adviser to the then Chief Minister of Manipur, N. Biren Singh.
Supporters Voice Frustration Over Investigation
Speaking to reporters during the protest, a representative of the Thanlon BJP Mandal identified as Mang said the demonstration was intended to draw attention to what protesters see as a lack of justice nearly three years after the attack.
Mang stated that despite appeals made by the MLA’s family members, the case has yet to see resolution from investigating agencies including the Central Bureau of Investigation and the National Investigation Agency.
“Three years have passed, but justice has not been delivered,” Mang said, adding that the delay has led to growing frustration among supporters.
He also questioned the response from authorities, noting that both the state and central governments are led by the same party as the late legislator.
“If even a legislator cannot receive protection and justice, it raises serious concerns about governance,” he said.
Concerns Raised During Assembly Session
The protest also coincided with the beginning of the Manipur Assembly session, a point highlighted by demonstrators.
Mang said supporters were particularly distressed that the legislative session had resumed while the issue surrounding the MLA’s case remained unresolved.
According to him, the prolonged delay has shaken the confidence of many supporters.
He further suggested that the group may reconsider its political alignment in future elections if justice is not delivered.
A Peaceful Demonstration
Despite the strong sentiments expressed, the protest remained peaceful. Demonstrators sat near the medical college gate holding banners and placards, calling for action from authorities and a resolution to the case.
Organisers said the gathering was intended to send a message to both state and central authorities that supporters are still waiting for accountability.