ZRA denies PREPAK killing was despite knowledge of identity

Imphal, June 07: The underground Zomi Revolutionary Army, ZRA, clarifying with regard to June 1 encounter near Aina village in Churachandpur district in which six PREPAK cadres were killed, has described as false and unfounded the charge that the PREPAK cadres were slain despite fully being aware of their identities. A statement issued by the ZRA’s public information wing claimed that the incident occurred when an unidentified group armed to the teeth with sophisticated weapons indiscriminately fired at a ZRA party. It said the identity of the armed group was known only after the security forces apprehended the injured, and reports appeared in the media. The statement said it was unfortunate that the armed persons were PREPAK cadres, stating that the ZRA does not perceive them as enemies. The ZRA rather treat them as brothers, understand their cause and respect their cadres, it said. The ZRA however went on to charge that valley based outfits continue to terrorize innocent tribals in the hill areas though they verbally profess peaceful coexistence. Such barbaric activities will only alienate the tribals from the mainstream, it said. The ZRA further attacked the PREPAK’s press statement issued with regard to the June 1 incident, charging that its intention was to divide the people of Manipur on communal lines and generate hatred among them. It also claimed that the presence of an Hmar among the PREPAK cadres indicated the PREPAK’s intent to subjugate the Hmar community. The ZRA also found fault with the PREPAK for singling out the Paite community, and said it is completely false to say that ZRA has a vested interest and represents the interest of a particular community. The ZRA statement finally appealed to all concerned not to communalize isolated incidents like that of June 1, and also expressed sympathy for the bereaved families.