TFO bans Shyamkr at Ukhrul, Kamjong
Source: The Sangai Express / Mungchan Zimik

Ukhrul, April 11 2018: The Tangkhul Frontal Organization (TFO) has decided to ban Forest and Environment Minister Th Shyamkumar in Tangkhul villages of Ukhrul and Kamjong districts with immediate effect.

According to TNL secretary V Gachui, the decision to ban the visit of the Minister was taken during a co-ordination meeting of all Tangkhul frontal organizations comprising of TNL, TMNL, TSL, TKS, TMNL, four zonal chairmen and AHTA yesterday.

The meeting was chaired by TNL president Weapon Zimik in his office chamber at Wino bazar, Ukhrul.

TFO bans Shyamkr at Ukhrul, Kamjong

Taking strong exception to the seizure of forest products, particularly timber by Forest Department officials under instructions from the Minister, the meeting discussed the recent seizure of timber worth crore of rupees from Sorathen village by the Minister during a visit.

TFO demanded immediate release of all the seized timbers unconditionally.

Gachui asserted that tribal land are not covered by Forest Act, MLR and LR Act and Forest Act cannot be applicable in the hill districts of Manipur.

The TNL secretary further said since the Forest and Environment Minister has failed to heed the demand of TFO in time, his entry will be banned in all Tangkhul villages with immediate effect.

The co-ordination meeting further resolved not to invite the Forest and Environment Minister or to withdraw the invitation extended to the Minister from individual, society group or in the name of the village immediately until the matter is brought to an amicable solution.

AHTA chairman Chonmi Raleng added that the forest beat/ gate must be removed from the district.

The co-ordination meeting also discussed the upcoming Shirui Lily festival to be held from April 24 to 28 at Ukhrul.

It was decided to prohibit sale of intoxicants (alcohol, drugs including indigenously brewed beer known as Khor) during the festival.

This will strictly be enforced in all the villages under TNL jurisdiction.

Shopkeepers have also been warned not to hike prices during the Lily festival.

The meeting also endorsed the ultimatum served by NFSA-PDS Agents Welfare Union to the Deputy Commissioner on March 22 for release of two months NFSA rice.