No unilateral decision on Awang Koubru, asserts IPSA
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, July 10 2021:
International Peace and Social Advancement (IPSA) has categorically stated that no community shall forcibly take decision on Awang Koubru Asuppa sacred site.
IPSA secretary (IPR) KT Meetei said in a statement that the history of Kangleipak (Manipur) and its origin is outstanding and the most significant one of the globes and this is being agreed by everyone.
The civilisation and tradition of the land, which have been in existence since time immemorial, was collectively formed by indigenous people.
The present generation of indigenous people of the land could enjoy the present status due to the age old tradition preserved and bestowed by forefathers of the land.
Moreover, it's an undeniable fact that Awang Koubru is the cradle of the beautiful indigenous people of the land like Meetei, Liangmei and Kabui, it maintained.
Though some indigenous people of the land have followed their own choice of religion and tradition brought about by time, the close relation they have with Awang Koub-ru is never broken but maintained till date and Meetei community still performs religious ceremonies and prays at Awang Koubru sacred site just as their forefathers did since time immemorial.
Despite knowing this, some communities settled afresh on the foothills of Koubru range are trying to rename the place and claim ownership instead of protecting the sacred site.
This indeed is not a good sign for Meetei and other indigenous communities, IPSA said and maintained that no community shall claim ownership of Awang Koubru or take decision on it without approval of Meetei and other indigenous communities.
While urging the government to honour its stand, IPSA called for a collective discussion involving all communities before taking any decision on saving ecosystem and environment of Koubru.