RPF greets on Kut
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 31 2012:
Greeting the people of Manipur, particularly the Kuki-Chin-Mizo community on the arrival of Kut festival, the proscribed Revolutionary People's Front (RPF) has expressed that the auspicious occasion is yet another opportunity to strengthen the bond of friendship and brotherhood amongst the indigenous group of people settled in Manipur.
An RPF statement issued by its secretary publicity T Leisemba expressed that apart from religious fervour associated with the grandest festival celebrated by the Kuki-Chin-Mizo group on the first day of november, Kut is an occasion to rejoice after months of toiling in the fields.
In enjoying the annual harvest and remembering the almighty for the bountiful harvest, the festival is undoubtedly a harbinger of peace and goodwill to all mankind, said Leisemba and expressed that besides strengthening the fraternal bonds amongst the Kuki-Chin-Mizo group the true essence of the celebration is to sustain the traditional relationships with other communities.
The gradual transition from Kut festival being an exclusive event for the Kuki-chin-Mizo group to the present day celebration for the entire people of Manipur only strengthens the belief that there is positive development and vibrancy in the social fabric of Manipur.
Inspite of differences in language and religion, jointly celebrating festivals of the indigenous communities is a healthy sign that traditions of the forefathers are being sustained in the right earnest, said the RPF statement.
Noting that due to prolonged occupation of Manipur by india inter-community relationships sometimes tend to strain, Leisemba contended that such loss of confidence between one community and another is a fallout of India's deliberate attempt to create divisions in the society on ethnic lines.
Even though India continues with its divide and rule policy it needs to be reminded that forces inimical to the society would ultimately suffer huge embarrassment if the people of Manipur stand unitedly, said the secretary while exuding confidence that every Kut festival will only strengthen resolve of the people to defeat devilish elements.