Quota system creating separatist mindset: Sanayaima
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, October 30 2022:
Although official record mentions Meetei community as the largest community in the state, the total population of the community practical-wise can only be regarded as a minority.
As such, there is the need for a unanimous decision to reinvigorate the community, social activist RK Sanayaima has stated.
He also observed that the policy of reservation of seats for specific communities for educational purposes and recruitment in government jobs is one of the stumbling blocks in bringing emotional integrity among the indigenous communities.
Sanayaima made the remarks during his speech at the 15th foundation day celebration of Centre for Electronic Industry (CELIN) Digital at Manipur Press Club here oh Sunday.
Sanayaima said that the hills' demand for creation of separate states for their respective communities would only lead to destruction of both the hills and the valley in the next 60-70 years.
This separatist mindset has been brought on by the government quota system, with each community only focussing on protecting their respective quotas and lacking the spirit of unity and integration.
Both the state and the society need unity of the communities for all-round development, instead of one-sided interest, he asserted.
Sanayaima continued that Manipur may seem to be a peaceful and developed state overtly but in truth, its economy is pitiful and it is heavily dependent on others for sustenance.
It is unable to properly utilise and promote its available indigenous resources such as utilisation of the medicinal plants in the state.
In addition, the banking and non-banking financial institutions in Manipur barely invest 10 percent of the money into the state.
To develop an economy, there is the need to focus on developing the agricultural sector, which is the foundation of economy.
However, in Manipur's context, the agricultural-related projects are rarely successful and the sector is most of the time ignored, he remarked.
Sanayaima then stressed the need for people to be more responsible, remarking that the people of Manipur are strong-willed and need guidance to ensure all-round success and development.
Sanayaima, who attended as the chief guest, appreciated the work done by CELIN Digital till date.
He then said that Manipur is inhabited by different small communities and as such, there is the need for taking a firm and unanimous decision at the community level to stand against the influence and influx of outsiders into the state.
Citing the census report, the social worker said that the total population of Manipur is stated to be around 28 lakh people, of which 12 lakh belong to the Meetei community, making it the largest community in the state.
However, when viewed practically, the Meetei community is a minority.
In addition, there are many migrants from Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar and other states of India residing in the state, which is increasing the population and putting pressure on the valley population.
Thus, it is of utmost importance for the people, especially the youth to be aware of the unforeseeable future in view of the evolving situation and see to the protection of the indigenous communities of the state.
The programme was attended by CELIN Digital producer Phanjoubam Lanajit as president, while DM College of Teacher Education associate professor Konika Khuraijam; social worker Preshojit Sanglakpam; Sur Hospital proprietor Dr L Somenkumar and national awardee Thingnam Ibethoi were present as guests of honour.
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