Peaceful co-existence drive continues
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, November 19 2015:
A one-day discussion programme on peaceful coexistence among the ethnic communities of Manipur was held today at Hiyangthang Kabui community hall.
The programme was jointly organised by Nongchup Imphal Meira Paibi Apunba Lup (NIMPAL), National Identity Protection Committee (NIPCO) and Hiyangthang Kabui Club (HKC) .
Khullakpa of Hiyangthang Kabui, Khunbu Gonmei Khumansana Kabui, Rongmei Ningthoujao, AMKIL president Phanjoubam Sakhi, NIMPAL president L Gyaneshori, NUPI Samaj secretary general Thokchom Ramani and AMTCANL president Soibam Momon Leima were the dais members.
Speaking at the occasion as the resource person, JCILPS convener, Khomdram Ratankumar said that indigenous people of the State have been living together in peace for over 2000 years.
However, division between the valley and hill people became more palpable after Manipur merged with India.
Now the only option left to foster unity among the people of the State and usher in an era of peaceful coexistence is to forget the past misunderstandings.
He stressed the need to promote peace and harmony in the State.
Manipur is not an entity formed by a single community.
As such, the land cannot be named Manipur if part of it is bifurcated, Ratan said.
The present generation may revisit the inseparable ties between the valley and hill people in the pages of history, he said.
It is very unfortunate that some section of the people are strongly opposing the Bill for the protection of indigenous people.
Altering the 1951 cutoff base year in the Bill will be a wrong move.
It is now time for the people to collectively struggle to get rid of the divide and rule policy of India, Ratan urged.
Adviser of MAPI Council Thokchom Rajendro and president of CADA Advocate Y Ratankumar also spoke on the occasion.