ATSUM calls for separate administration of tribals
Source: The Sangai Express / Mungchan Zimik
Ukhrul, September 25 2015 :
A demand for separate administration for the tribals of Manipur was endorsed during a consultative meeting of the All Tribal Students' Union, Manipur (ATSUM) at Ukhrul today.
It was also decided to extend support and co-operation to the co-ordinating committee ATSUM on the ground that it is the only common platform of the tribals in Manipur.
The consultative meeting was moderated by J Pamei, who said that ATSUM under the banner of "strengthening our future." The campaign will be carried out in all the hill districts of Manipur.
Greeting the student leaders, President of Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) Weapon Zimik in his welcome speech called upon all to united despite the past mistakes and added that the need of the hour is to uphold and safeguard 'our rights' .
Despite the call for reviewing the three Bills passed on August 31, Y Kapai, former president of Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong said the same should be rejected and the demand for separate administration should be pursued.
Another social worker, stressed on the need for separate administration for the hills for sustained economic growth and equal development for all.
A number of speakers also called for the resignation of all tribal MLAs.
ATSUM leaders said that the campaign will continue and explained that it is a new process for the benefits of the tribals and reiterated that ATSUM will uphold tribals rights and defend 'our land rights' .
"It does not matter whether the tribal MLAs resign or not, but we will continue our demand till it is achieved", said ATSUM.
A booklet titled "A Critique on the three Bills" was widely distributed at the meeting as well as to all the public at the town.
ANSAM president Seth Shatsang expressed gratitude and added that with the support of KSO and ANSAM, ATSUM stands united for the common cause of tribal.
Women rights activist N Tungshang said the the common voice of all tribals demanding 'our rights' has been raised at various cities of the country under the ambit of ATSUM.
TNL president Weapon Zimik at the concluding programme expressed support to the co-ordinating committee of ATSUM on behalf of the Tangkhul community and urged all tribals to unite and fight the anti-tribals Bills.
He also raised the demand for creation of a new Christian State outside the Government of Manipur.