Mass rally against proposed second home of dancing deer
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, August 17 2018:
A large number of locals and womenfolk staged a sit in protest at Nongmaikhong Mayai Leikai community hall today decrying the proposed plan to transform Pumlen pat into the second home of the Sangai.
The participants who took part in the sit in protest organised by Nongmaikhong Apunba Meira Paibi Lup, condemned the State Government's plan to transform Pumlenpat into the second home of the rare Sangai or the dancing deer.
Speaking to media persons, Socio-Economic Development Organisation, Nongmaikhong, member Heisnam Nimai said that Pumlenpat, which is located in Hiyanglam A/C, Kakching district, is the main source of livelihood for the people living in the surrounding areas.
The lake, which measures an area of around 22 sq kilometres, provides bountiful resources for the people of Tokpaching, Sairik,.
Lairok, Nongmaikhong, Arong, Arong Khunou, Tera, Komnao, Waikhong, Thongjao, Thounaojam, Elangkhangpokpi and Yangdong.
The people of various villages in Bishnupur and Imphal West district are also benefiting directly or indirectly from the lake, he added.
He explained that the people also want to conserve Sangai and will also contribute whatever they can to save the animal.
They will also refrain from causing any disturbances to the projects or plans taken up to protect the deer, he assured.
However, the people will never accept the illogical attempt of the State Government to meddle with Pumlenpat instead of trying to develop and improve Keibul Lamjao National park for the welfare of the endangered animal.
Demanding the Government to work towards developing the National park, Nimai explained that Keibul Lamjao National Park measures around 40 sq kilometres, which is far larger than Pumlenpat.
If the Government wants to develop Pumlenpat, it is well and good.
However, trying to transform the lake into the second home of the Sangai is definitely not acceptable, he warned.
The people shouted slogans like 'Save Pumlenpat', 'No Sangai at Pumlenpat', 'Keep Sangai at Keibul Lamjao' and ' Do not turn the people, into beggars' etc.