GUWAHATI: In a significant development, 13 prominent sportspersons from Manipur have expressed their intention to return their medals and awards if peace is not restored promptly in the violence-stricken state, reports stated.
The athletes, including renowned Olympic medalist Mirabai Chanu, weightlifter Kunjarani Devi, former Indian women’s football team captain Oinam Bem Bem Devi, and boxers L. Sarita Devi and L. Ibomcha Singh, reportedly made their collective stand known by submitting an eight-point memorandum to Union Home Minister Amit Shah during his visit to Imphal on Tuesday.
The memorandum presented to the Union Home Minister sought decisive action against the extremist groups responsible for the ongoing violence.
During a press conference held at the Manipur Press Club in Majorkhul, L. Anita Chanu, one of the sportspersons, addressed the media, and stated, "When we stood on international podiums, we represented a unified Manipur and India. However, the unfolding situation now 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 athletes expressed their disappointment and concern over the current state of affairs in Manipur. In addition to returning their hard-earned medals, the sportsperson reportedly vowed to abstain from representing India in any international competitions unless the authorities take immediate action to restore peace in the state.
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