Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 23 2009:
enouncing the alleged secretive and unjustified manner of allotting land to Assam Rifles at Khongjom Hills (Phundrei Maning Ching/Chingjao Ching), the JAC Against Occupation of Phundrei Maning Ching (Chingjao Ching) for Installation of AR by Govt of Manipur has decided to boycott the upcoming Republic Day celebrations.
A press release issued by the JAC asserted that the State Government's act of allotting Khongjom Hills to Assam Rifles is tantamount to dishonouring the indomitable spirit of the martyrs who laid down their lives for Manipur fighting against British imperialist soldiers in the Battle of Khongjom.
Saying that the Government's move is "dark move", the JAC has declared Khongjom a "black area".
Reminding that the people of Khongjom circle has been demanding cancellation of the land allotment order issued to AR since 10 days back, the JAC decried that refusal of the Government to pay any attention to the people's collective appeal.
It further asserted that the Government has been concentrating itself in the preparations for the Republic Day celebrations.
Pointing out the problems faced during Khongjom Day observation due to lack of space, the JAC asserted that the Government ought to have developed Khongjom War Memorial Complex in a spacious and grander manner as a mark of sincere obeisance to the great martyrs.
But in total contrast to what should be done, the State Government has allotted a large part of Khongjom Hills to Assam Rifles as if offering some flowers by a few Government leaders without participation of the general public, is enough to pay homage to the Khongjom Battle martyrs.
With the declaration of Khongjom area as "black area", all the households of the area will put up black flags in protest against the land allotment to AR, conveyed the release.
In a similar manner, black flags will be put up at all Government and private offices and schools located in Khongjom area.
The JAC also appealed to all transporters doing service through Khongjom to attach black flags in their vehicles.
Necessary preparations have also been made to launch different forms of agitation in the event of the State Government continuing to pay no attention to this democratic form of demonstration.