ATSUM memo alerts MLAs, MP on STDCM demand
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, November 15 2022:
Leaders and volunteers of All Tribal Students' Union, Manipur (ATSUM) stormed official residences of elected tribal leaders and submitted memorandum to them on Tuesday regarding inclusion of Meetei/Meitei in the ST list of Indian Constitution being pursued by Scheduled Tribe Demand Committee, Manipur (STDCM) .
Before storming official residences of elected tribal leaders, ATSUM leaders and volunteers assembled at Adimjati campus and then head ed to the official residence of transport minister Khashim Vashum and submitted a memorandum.
The ATSUM members then proceeded to Lamphel quarters of Outer Manipur MP Dr S Lorho Pfoze and submitted a copy of the same memorandum.
Thereafter, they went to official residence of water resource minister Awangbou Newmai but the minister was found absent.
However, a copy of the memorandum was submitted to the personal assistant of the minister.
Finally, they met and interacted with HAC chairman Dipu Gangmei.
During interaction with Dr S Lorho, the MP told ATSUM leaders that he fully acknowledges apprehension and genuine grievances of the tribals when Meeteis demand for recognition as ST.
However, everybody has the right to demand anything and it is on part of the government to weigh and balance as to whether the demand of one community oversteps the rights and privileges of the minority communities, he said.
While terming the issue as a serious one, the MP said that India being a democratic country will definitely protect the rights and privileges of the tribals.
He also assured to examine memorandum thoroughly and explore how best he can address the issue at the right platform.
Meanwhile, HAC chairman Dipu Gangmei told the AT SUM leaders that inclusion of communities in the ST list is to be decided by the competent authority and there is no need for getting panic.
He also assured of raising the issue at proper forum and competent authority and discuss the same on merits.
Mention may be made here that ATSUM has been urging the state government and tribal MLAs not to consider and support the demand of STDCM while terming inclusion of Meetei/Meitei in the ST list as illogical and illegitimate.
In the memorandum, ATSUM stated clearly as to why the Meiteis should not become ST.
Meanwhile, ATSUM president Paotinthang Lupheng informed that HAC is convening a meeting on Wednesday to discuss the issue and expressed hope of taking a decision in the interest of tribal rights.
Paotinthang also appealed to the STDCM to have a relook on their stand as such demands will only create rift between the hills and valley people and distortion the unity and integrity of people in the state.