Strike averted in Manipur following students' release

A potential 48-hour general strike in Manipur was averted following the unconditional release of five students on Monday, officials said. The students, demanding action against adulteration, were arrested in a questionable manner.

Members of the Kangleipak Students' Association (KSA) had on May 27 caught Rajesh Kumar Yadav, a dealer of iodised salt packets, while adulterating the same in Imphal.

His brother, Rajat Prasad Yadav, who runs a hotel at Keishampat in Imphal was also pulled up.

While they were being paraded before reporters, police raided and arrested the five KSA members while letting the brothers go away.

People have been questioning the role of police in protecting the traders while arresting the students.

The KSA said: "Okram Henry, a politician, told us that since the traders are his voters, they cannot be touched." Later, Henry denied it.

There have been various agitations demanding the release of the KSA members. Home Minister Gaikhangam agreed to release them on Monday after some delay.

--IANS

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