STDCM backs ST status for Meiteis in Assam
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, September 02 2017:
Scheduled Tribe Demand Committee of Manipur (STDCM) has en-dorsed the proposed agita- tion of the United Manipuri Association of Assam (UMA) on various demands including inclusion of Mei-teis in Assam in the State's ST list .
In a statement, STDCM said it shows solidarity to the UMA and morally supports the proposed agitation of blocking NH-54 .
It may be mentioned that the Assam Govt had recommended inclusion of six communities including the Tai Ahom, Koch-Rajbongsi, Chuteya, Morans, Muttocks and Tea Tribe in the ST list to the Centre.
The Centre is in the process of inducting these communities in the ST list .
Manipur Govt should press Assam Govt for inclusion of Meiteis of Assam in its ST list.
Besides, the Manipur Govt should make recommendation to the Centre for the inclusion of Mei- teis/Meeteis, an indigenous community of Manipur, in the ST list without any further delay, STDCM said.
The Assam Govt would seriously consider the demand of Assam Meiteis when Meiteis of Manipur are included in the ST list.
If not, Meiteis would become the only indigenous community of the North East which is not in the ST list.
The community would be pushed to more disadvantageous position if there is no Consti- tutional protection even if the community claims they are indigenous to the land.