Present crisis is not about religion, says Padmashri Heisnam Sabitri
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR
Imphal, June 02 2023:
Prominent theatre artist Padmashri Heisnam Sabitri has expressed disappointment on the portrayal of the present crisis occurring in Manipur as between the Hindus and Christians.
Talking to DIPR, Heisnam Sabitri said, "The way the issue is being taken and portrayed as religion-based is unacceptable.
They have not heard the correct version of the present crisis saying that it is between Hindus and Christians.
I cannot agree to this misconception.
The Hindus and Christians are living lovingly and peacefully together even now" .
She added, "In my locality Langol where people of every community and religion live, we have been coexisting peacefully and lovingly since ages till now and have been sharing whatever we have and our experiences with one another" .
Highlighting that Kuki militant groups under Suspension of Operation (SoO) are targeting common villagers residing in the nearby foothills, she alleged that the militants have clearly violated the ground rules and are attacking common people and sending out the wrong impression to the outside world as the Meiteis targeting them instead.
"It is quite unfortunate to hear in some media platform that all the tribals in the valley areas are unable to stay because of the torture meted out by the Meiteis.
But the reality is that the Meiteis are very hospitable, simple and peace-loving people.
People with vested interest are creating confusion", she asserted.
"The incident had already occurred, but as of now, we should learn to forget and move on to bring a peaceful solution to this problem and I earnestly pray that peace prevails in the state", appeals Heisnam Sabitri.
It may be mentioned that Heisnam Sabitri is an internationally-acclaimed actress.
For her performances and contribution in the field of theatre as an actress, she has received various honours and awards in and outside the country.
She received Manipur State Kala Akademi for acting in 1988, National Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for acting in 1991, Best actress award by the panel of critics in the 3rd Cairo International Festival of experimental theatre in 1991 .
She has also been honoured with Nandikar Award in 2002 at Kolkata on the occasion of the year of women empowerment by Nandikar, Kolkata in collaboration with the Department of Child and Women Development, Government of India as well as Padma Shri by the Government of India in 2007 .