Ethnic conflict takes multi-cultural Manipur backward: Dr Lokendra
Source: Hueiyen News Service / Okendro Khundongbam
Imphal, October 24 2015 :
Manipur, a state inhabited by different tribes and communities which should ideally usher in multi-culturalism has been taken backward by politics of conflict based on ethnic lines, said eminent historian and political analyst Dr Lokendra Arambam.
Dr Lokendra was speaking at a public convention organised by Federation of Clubs Yairipok in collaboration with United Committee Manipur (UCM), All Manipur United Club's Organisation (AMUCO) and Committee on Civil Society of Kangleipak (CCSK) at Bamon Leikai Youth Club, Yairipok.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Lokendra who was one of the presidium members of the convention said that the sharp dent in Manipur's multi-cultural society has been caused due to numerous fault-lines created by the Government of India.
He recalled that many precious lives have been sacrificed in the attempt to safeguard the territorial integrity of the State.
He cited the example of the mass June uprising in 2001 which protested against the Government of India and NSCN (IM)'s extension of ceasefire coverage area to Manipur.
He said the objectives of the mass uprising and even the torching of the State Assembly were not aimed at just for the benefit of one community.
Dr Lokendra also dwelt on the recent unrest in Churachandpur District and asked why there was growing distrust among the communities when some efforts were being made to safeguard the indigenous communities of the Manipur.
He also cautioned all on the divide and rule policy adopted by outside forces.
The convention was attended by UCM President Johnson Elangbam; AMUCO Vice President Ph Deban, social scientist Dr Dhanabir Laishram and others.