IPSA states clear stand on Mt Koubru
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, July 10 2021:
The International Peace and Social Advancement (IPSA) has categorically asserted that no particular group or community should claim ownership of the sacred Awang Koubru Assupa.
In a statement, IPSA also appealed to all concerned to recognise the necessity of discussing the matter of protecting/developing Mt Koubru with the participation of all communities which originated from the mountain.
Awang Koubru is a place of origin for the indigenous communities such as Meetei/Meitei, Liangmai, Kabui etc and many of them still worship Awang Koubru, IPSA added.
Saying that Meetei/Meitei who follow other religions also pray at Awang Koubru regularly to keep the bond with Awang Koubru Asuppa Ibudhou intact, IPSA added that certain groups settled near the mountain range acting like the owner of Mt Koubru in the pretence of protection is disappointing.
Asserting that all decisions taken regarding Mt Koubru without the consent of the indigenous groups are invalid, IPSA urged the State Government to discuss the matter for conserving the mountain range with the indigenous groups and come to a decisive resolution.
The association further urged the Government to check the practise of rice cultivation by felling trees, encroachment and road construction at Mt Koubru, which has been declared as Reserve Forest area.
The condition of Mt Koubru today is disappointing to behold as it has become more like a barren forest, claimed IPSA and urged the State Government and people residing near the mountain to understand that this rapid degradation of the revered mountain is breaking the heart of the indigenous people.
Saying that about 70 new villages have been established at the foot of Mt Koubru in a span of just 30-40 years, IPSA added that the sacred site of Awang Koubru Asuppa will disappear in another 20 years if this rapid expansion continues unchecked.
IPSA further stated that the fate of Mt Koubru cannot be decided by a handful of villages or groups.
Urging the department concerned to take necessary actions to check establishment of new villages in the proximity of Mt Koubru as well as to stop practise of zoom cultivation, poppy plantation, deforestation etc in the reserved forest areas, IPSA appealed all to stop claiming ownership of the sacred mountain.