Meet decides to safeguard Ima Keithel
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, March 22 2018:
A day-long discussion programme on the topic "Khwairamband Ima Keithel gi Saktam Kalhoubada Eikhoigi Thoudang" was jointly organised by Social Upliftment Organisation (SUO) Manipur and Iramdam Kanba Apunba Lup (IKAL) at Rupmahal Theatre today.
The discussion programme moderated by Ch Sheelaramani, Associate Professor, HOD, English, DM College of Arts was attended by Ch Birendra of DDK Imphal; Ningombam Seerma, Associate Professor, LS College, Nambol and Professor Chinglen Meisnam, Department of Economics, Manipur University.
Addressing the gathering, SUO president W Luwangleima called upon the present generation to collectively conserve Khwairamband Ima Keithel which symbolizes the strong foothold of Manipuri women in the society.
She expressed deep concern over the attempts made by non-locals to vend wares at the market, saying this will degrade the unique identity of the historic market.
She said that Ima Keithel is a hub of not just for commercial activities but also socio-political discussions for Manipuri women.
She observed that many non-locals would try to establish foothold once the railway connects the State.
As such, it is high time for the people of the State to take up prompt measures to conserve the market from various threats, she added.
All the participants present at the programme adopted several resolutions with regard to conservation of the market.
They resolved to protect the identity of the market at any cost and thwart any attempt made by men to sell wares close to the women vendors.
It unanimously decided to urge the State Government to ensure pension for the women vendors.
They also resolved to provide security for women vendors, including establishment of a police cell and installation of CCTV cameras at the market.