Use of Manipuri Ponies for horse carts is misrepresentation of Meitei culture, says DESAM
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, November 26 2022:
Democratic Students' Alliance of Manipur has categorically stated that 'use of horse carts (Sagol Gari) degrades cultural value of the rich and unique indigenous Manipuri tradition built meticulously by our forefathers'.
DESAM in a press release expressed serious concern over the use of 'Manipuri Pony' for carriage purposes at the ongoing Sangai Festival by those in power at the sacred Ibudhou Marjing complex and termed such acts as 'misrepresentation of Meitei culture'.
Stating that Manipuri Pony has been closely associated with the civilisation and identity of the State, DESAM appealed to all concerned to use Manipuri Pony for preservation of Manipuri culture and not for other activities which may distort the culture and tradition and mislead the public.
Enlisting possible measures to safeguard the endangered Manipuri Pony, DESAM expressed that providing regular incentives to those who are rearing Manipuri Pony and striving earnestly for their protection, developing sanctuaries for breeding and protection of ponies, organising frequent polo tournaments, taking up horse riding classes among the upcoming students, development of Mount Police and other similar initiatives will immensely contribute to protection of the ponies rather than putting them for carriage purposes which is highly inappropriate with the advanced current times.
Maintaining that Manipuri society is one such society which holds ponies with utmost regard and respect owing to its connection with the history since time immemorial, DESAM stated that they are related with many sacred sites in the State.
'Historical accounts of performing proper rituals at the death of a pony similar to those observed during the death of a human clearly identifies the status and respect our society has towards these ponies', DESAM added.
In view of the above instances, DESAM sought the attention of the Government to take up strict measures for the protection of ponies and to ensure that there is no further exploitation.