Bodies appeal for end to economic blockade culture
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, August 12 2022:
While making it clear that economic activities of Manipur should not be at the mercy of any organisations, several organisations have appealed to all concerned not to impose economic blockade and victimise the people of Manipur while pressing their demands.
A release issued jointly by Kangleipak Kanba Lup (KKL), Salai Kanba Lup (SKL), Salaic-ha Pibarel Punshi Marup, Social Youth Development Organisations Phougakchao Ikahai, Youth Development Organisation, Lamthabung Area Voluntary Association, Torbung Area Sporting Association, Social Welfare Club, Youth Development Club, Brother's United Torbung, Youth Social Development Organisation, Ibudhou Thou-gal Youth Development Organisation, JAC Tiddim Road and Torbung GP Meira Paibi Lup recalled the economic blockade launched by ATSUM from August 5 in pursuance of their demand to the government, thus affecting people of 30 lakhs.
Similar economic blockade, which is unlawful, was also imposed previously even for 142 days, halting the lifelines of the state, the joint retease recounted.
Though the government 'arrested those involved In imposing the economic blockade, they were released after fulfilment of their demands.
However, no one considers the impacts given by the economic blockade to the people, it continued, while adding that the blockade drastically affected the revenue and economy of the state.
While informing that KKL along with 14 other organisations resolved to launch counter blockade if economic blockade is imposed by any organisation, the joint release appealed against imposing economic blockade and halting the lifeline of the people.
The organisations will fully support if the demands is rational.
Meanwhile, Economic & Resource Development, Kangleipak (ERDO) secretary general Shanta Nahakpam pointed out that every indigenous community in the state has the responsibility to properly utilise its resources and enhance the economy.
He maintained that despite the presence of Scheduled Tribes, there is no scheduled area given by the 5th and 6th schedule of the constitution in Manipur.
Moreover, the indigenous communities need to conduct fact finding about the relationship between the indigenous people and resources.
Stressing the need to critically examine whether there is failure in governance or any other agenda in connection with the demand of ATSUM regarding more autonomy in land resource, revenue and economic activity within a state, he maintained that there is confusion between Hill Areas Committee and other authorities despite the initiatives taken up to equally share the economic activities and resources among the indig enous communities through implementation of NRC and population commission.
Appealing to organisations concerned not to impose economic blockade, he cautioned that they along with like-minded organisations will fight against such imposition and will take the help of law to ensuring payment of compensation to the affected traders, entrepreneurs, manufacturers and commoners because of the blockade.