Discussion on indigenous people as custodians of land, eco-system held at MU
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, December 22 2015:
Centre for Human Rights and Duties Education, Manipur University, conducted a one-day discussion on the topic 'Indigenous peoples as custodians of land and its eco-system' at the lecture hall of Human Rights Centre, MU today.
Attending as chief guest, Vice Chancellor of Manipur University of Culture Professor N Khagendra Singh said protection of indigenous people as well as promotion of Manipuri language are crucial for preserving Manipuri identity.
For protection of indigenous people, it is important to find out the roots/ancestry of each and every indigenous community.
The indigenous settlers, as custodians of the land should take active part in preserving the ecosystem of the land, the Professor added.
Guest of honour Khaidem Mani Singh, former president, All Manipur Bar Association, urged the State to frame a policy which could safeguard the indigenous communities of the State.
On the three infamous Bills for protection of indigenous people, the former president of AMBA said none of the said Bills infringe on the existing rights of tribal.
The Bills are aimed at protecting the indigenous settlers of the State, Mani said.
The different indigenous communities of the State should unite and act as custodians of the land against outside influence.
If the State Government can bring about speedy development and good governance, it would go a long way in protecting the indigenous people.
Director of Centre for Myanmar Studies and South-East Asia, Manipur University, Professor W Nabakumar Singh and School of Social Sciences, Manipur University, Dean, Professor E Bijoykumar Singh also attended today's discussion.
Former HOD, Audio Visual Research Centre, MU, Dr Arambam Lokendra was the moderator of the academic session of the discussion.
Dr N Pramod, Associate Professor, LMS Law College, Imphal; Grace Jajo, social worker; Jiten Yumnam, Director, Centre for Research and Advocacy, Manipur and Romeo Bungdon, general secretary, All Manipur Tribal Union (AMTU) were the resource persons.