No community should stand against territorial integrity, says Gaikhangam
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, November 13 2012: Reacting against the demand for separate state raised by the Kukis as well as the 'alternative arrangement' by a section of the Nagas in the hills, Home Minister Gaikhangam, who also holds the portfolio of Home, has categorically stated that no community should stand against the territorial integrity of Manipur.

Talking to media persons on the sideline of a reception function organized in his honour by ADC, Tamenglong at Langol Tarung here today, Gaikhangam said that none of us, whether at individuals or communities level should even think of breaking apart the territorial integrity of Manipur, which is a gift from our great forefathers.

Denouncing the decision of Kuki State Demand Committee to call an indefinite blockade along all the NHs and SHs of the state starting from the day of Ningol Chakkouba, which is one of the biggest festivals of the Meetei community, as unfortunate, Gaikhangam maintained that it is not the right move to be taken at this juncture.

Gaikhangam observed that the demand of Kuki State Demand Committee for a political dialogue does not have much relevance with the state of Manipur.

The state government had consulted the Central Government in this regard earlier and it will further urge the Central Government once again, he added.

Furthermore, Gaikhangam said that he does not want to confront United Naga Council (UNC) over the issues raised by it.

The Deputy Chief Minister also pointed out the need to come to a negotiating table to sort out differences.

All the communities should first think of the state before their community and oneself, he said while appealing to the people to have sincerity, patience and dedication for living together peacefully as people of one State and one big family.

"We should never forget that we are all Manipuris.

We should work hard for the welfare of the people with keeping in mind that we are Manipuris.

We cannot work with the mindset focusing on the concept of indigenous.

If we work together in harmony and peace there will be development in Manipur," he said.

The reception function was also attended by MLA A Janghemlung Panmei of Tamenglong A/C and MLA Kikhonbou Newmai ofTamei constituency.

Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam who arrived at the reception function along with his wife was given a rousing welcome with garlands.

Later during the day, another reception function was also hosted in his honour jointly by Zeliangrong Development Organisation and Zeliangrong Civil Organisation, Imphal at Ragailong.

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