Churachandpur Residents Stage Silent Torch Rally Seeking Justice for Slain MLA Vungzagin Valte
The town of Churachandpur witnessed a poignant and determined display of public sentiment as residents held a silent torch rally on Monday night. This solemn procession was organized to demand justice for the late Thanlon MLA, Vungzagin Valte, whose tragic story has gripped the community.
A Brutal Attack and a Delayed Tragedy
Vungzagin Valte, a respected legislator, was brutally attacked in Imphal on May 4, 2023. He later succumbed to his injuries on February 21, 2026, at a private hospital in Gurugram. Since February 24, his body has been kept in cold storage at the Churachandpur District Hospital, a fact that has added to the community's anguish and unresolved grief.
Coordinated Protests Under Zomi Coordination Committee
The silent torch rally is part of a series of protests orchestrated by the Zomi Coordination Committee (ZCC). These demonstrations have included a massive rally, a sit-in dharna organized by the BJP Mandal of the 56-Thanlon assembly constituency, and the midnight tolling of death bells. Each event underscores the persistent and growing demand for accountability in Valte's case.
Participants in the rally voiced strong criticism, questioning how the BJP-led Manipur government has failed to deliver justice for one of its own legislators. This sentiment echoes widely, with many reiterating calls for transparency and action from the authorities.
The Route and Conditions of the Rally
The rally commenced at 7 pm from Valte's residence, with participants braving severe weather conditions to join the procession. The route traced a path through key areas of Churachandpur: moving along Dorcas Road, Tedim Road, and past the Old Bazar police station. It then proceeded via Tipaimukh Road to the Churachandpur Medical College, passing through the public ground, symbolizing a community-wide appeal for justice.
This silent torch rally not only honors the memory of Vungzagin Valte but also highlights ongoing concerns about political accountability and justice in Manipur. As protests continue, the focus remains on ensuring that such incidents do not go unaddressed, reinforcing the need for swift and fair legal proceedings.
