In a powerful statement of their demand for peace, 13 prominent sportspersons from Manipur have expressed their willingness to return their medals and awards if the violence in the state is not resolved promptly, according to reports on Wednesday.
The sportspersons, including Olympic medallist Mirabai Chanu, weightlifter Kunjarani Devi, former Indian women's football team captain Oinam Bem Bem Devi, boxer L. Sarita Devi, Olympian judoka Likmabam Shushila Devi, and boxer L. Ibomcha Singh, submitted an eight-point memorandum to Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Imphal on Tuesday. They urged for decisive action against the extremist groups responsible for the ongoing violence.
The memorandum outlined their commitment to returning their medals and refraining from representing India in international competitions if the concerned authorities fail to restore peace in Manipur. It also emphasized the need for immediate intervention to address the situation and preserve the unity and integrity of the state.
During a press conference held at the Manipur Press Club in Majorkhul, L Anita Chanu expressed the concerns of the sportspersons, stating, "When we stood on international podiums, we represented a unified Manipur and India. However, the current unfolding situation threatens the very idea of a unified Manipur. We have confidence in the central government, but their delayed intervention has come at the cost of numerous lives."
The memorandum included several key points, namely:
1. Revocation of the Suspension of Operation (SoO) agreement with Kuki militant groups.
2. Restoration of peace and normalcy in Manipur without delay.
3. Protection of the unity and integrity of the state.
4. Rejection of any demand for the disintegration of Manipur under any circumstances.
5. Allowance for Meeteis to settle in the hills.
6. Deportation of illegal immigrants to their respective countries, among other demands.
The sportspersons' collective action reflects their deep concern for the well-being and harmony of Manipur. Their decision to potentially return their hard-earned medals serves as a plea for immediate action to restore peace in the violence-affected state.
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