In what was seen as the largest march ever organized in Ukhrul, more than twenty thousand people from every nook and corner of Ukhrul took to the roads and converged at the Tangkhul Naga Long ground. The torch rally was organized by Tangkhul Action Committee (TAC), which is formed to launch campaign against the O Ibobi Singh’s government decision to bar Muivah’s entry. The torch rallyists also burnt the effigy of O. Ibobi Singh and shouted slogans against the state government. A host of civil society leaders who spoke on the occasion include TAC co-convenor Jonathan Kashung, former Tangkhul Hoho president Ramthing Hungyo and Tangkhul Hoho president Solomon.
Exhorting the rallyists on Tuesday night, the Tangkhul Hoho president Solomon Ningshen said: “We should be united to defeat any elements posing threats to the interests of the Nagas. We should stand up for our right and truth.”
On the occasion, TAC co-convenor Jonathan also reiterated its stand to boycott the Manipur District Council elections scheduled in May and June. “How can the SPF government take away our constitutional rights?” Jonathan questioned. Former Tangkhul Hoho president Ramthing Hungyo asked the people to remain steadfast and said “The Nagas must continue to desist any threats and fight to achieve victory”.
TAC also stated that the campaign against the Ibobi’s government will continue until the rightful demand of the Nagas are accepted.