Restoring peace & handling bigger issues
- Hueiyen Lanpao Editorial :: September 25 2015 -
The Manipur Cabinet’s decision on making efforts to restore peace in troubled torn areas of the hills particularly Churachandpur District should be appreciated though it comes a little too late in the day.
It should also be noted that not all are aware of the plans the State Government is contemplating on for confidence building measures.
The people of Churachandpur are still protesting against the loss of nine lives during the protest against the three Bills passed by the Manipur Legislative Assembly on August 31.
While making efforts to allay fears of being adversely affected by the three Bills meant to protect the indigenous people of the State, it would be fair on the part of the Government to minutely study the points raised by the tribal leaders.
Even as the State Government reassures itself of restoring peace, the Tribal Leaders’ Consultative Committee had issued a rejoinder to the clarification made by the Secretary to the Chief Minister on September 7.
The rejoinder amply indicates hardening of stance by the leaders over the issue which the State Government needs to take note of.
The Cabinet also took another significant decision on pushing for the appointment of a Government of India’s interlocutor for initiating political dialogue with Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and United People’s Front (UPF) now under Suspension of Operation (SoO).
It can be recalled that the President of Kuki National Organization (KNO) PS Haokip had reiterated the demand for a Kuki State within the Indian Union.
He called for the unity of Kuki groups so as to realize the demand for the creation of a Kuki State. He had stressed on Kukis’ right to govern themselves and determine their future.
It would be a tightrope walk for the Government of Manipur to consider all the demands put forth by the Kuki groups.
It remains to be seen how the O Ibobi led dispensation deals with the two issues.
While making attempts to convince the tribal groups on how the three bills would not affect their interests, the State Government should also be prepared on how to handle bigger demands.
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