CSOs call to shun ethno-centric agenda
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, December 12 2015 :
The 76th Nupi Lan observance function was organised by the 76th Nupi Lan Numit Observation Com-mittee at THAU ground, Thangmeiband.
Speaking at the occasion, presidium member of the function, Ph Sakhi Leima, president of Apunba Manipur Kanba Ima Lup (AMKIL) said that the valour of Mani-puri women in the two wo- men's wars (Nupi Lan) of 1904 and 1939 has been rec-koned with awe across the world.
Although the Nupi Lan of 1939 was seen as an uprising against export of rice from Manipur which resulted in shortage of food in the State, the core idea was to challenge the British rule, Sakhi said.
President of Poirei Lei-marol, L Memchoubi called upon all women of the State to follow the footsteps of the brave Manipuri women who rose against the British.
She gave the clarion call to women of the hill and the valley to collectively join the third Nupi Lan�which the Meira Paibis of the State have already started.
President of Kuki Women's Union, Rose Mangshi Haokip said that Nupi Lan fought by Manipuri women holds a unique place in the history of civilisation.
She said that women of the State have been waging the third Nupi Lan against drugs and other issues confronting the State.
Rose Mangshi said that everyone should ponder what the railway line is going to bring to the people of the State once construction of the same is completed.
As such, women of the State cutting across hill-valley divide should remain alert to check influx of migrants through the railway line.
Stressing the need to maintain peace among all com- munities of the State, Mang- shi urged all concerned to shun pursuing ethnocentric agendas.
President of Kabui Mothers' Association, Kakomlunglu said that the Nupi Lan was not fought only by Meitei women.
Women from the hills had also played a pivotal role in the war (lan).
As such, it would be prudent to acknowledge the contributions of the hill women in the Nupi Lan too.
She said that the integrity of Manipur should be woven around the valour and courage of the women.
Exclusivist approach should be discouraged.
Janatun Begum, Assistant Professor of Manipur College urged all concerned to wedge the third Nupi Lan against drugs.
She also urged all concerned to remain alert as problems are likely to double with the coming of the railway line in the State.
Dr Dhanabir Laishram, Th Rajen and Prescilla Thiumai spoke as the resource persons.
The 76th Nupi Lan Numit Observation Committee is formed by several organisations like AMKIL, Kanglamei, Poirei Leimarol, KWWA, AMAWOVA, Nupi Samaj, Tammi Chingmi, MEPWAK and WWOK.