AKKSU reaches out to UNESCO with call to protect Meitei community, heritage
Source: The Sangai Express

Kakching, August 10 2024: The All Kha-Kanglei Students' Union (AKKSU) has written to the Director-General of United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) with an appeal for protection and preservation of the Meitei indigenous community in Manipur.

An intimation signed by Ksh National, general secretary, AKKSU, sought the intervention and support of UNESCO in safeguarding the Meitei people and their cultural heritage from the escalating threats posed by "Kuki narco-terrorist groups" .

It added that the Meitei community has borne the brunt of this violence, with many losing their lives, homes and livelihoods.

The targeted attacks on Meitei cultural institutions and places of worship have further deepened people's fears of losing their cultural identity and heritage, highlighted AKKSU.

Thus, it has urged UNESCO to i) raise awareness and highlight the plight of the Meitei indigenous community and the threats posed by Kuki narco-terrorist groups, ii) engage with the Indian Government and international bodies to advocate for enhanced security measures and protection for Meitei community, iii) provide resources and support for initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting Meitei cultural heritage including funding for cultural projects, documentation of traditional practices, and restoration of damaged cultural sites like Nungthong Lairembi at Serou, Kondong Lairembi at Moreh, Koubru Hills (believed to be place of origin of Meitei community), Thangjing Hills etc and iv) facilitate dialogue between the Meitei community, Indian Govt and other stakeholders to address the root causes of the conflict.

Stressing on the urgency of the situation, AKKSU called upon the UNESCO Director General to take immediate action to help protect the Meitei people and their cultural legacy.

As an organization dedicated to promoting peace, security and the preservation of cultural heritage worldwide, AKKSU maintained that UNESCO's involvement is crucial in addressing the dire situation faced by the Meitei community.

Comment