Zeliangrong CSOs raise voter deletion, boundary issues
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, November 18 2023:
Zeliangrong Civil Organisations (ZCOs) of the state, in a discussion programme on key issues concerning the Zeliangrong community, which was organised by Zeliangrong Baudi on Saturday, drew the attention of the government on four key issues of voter deletion, district boundary of Tamenglong, construction of museum for Rani Gaidinliu and present situation in the state.
Leaders of Zeliangrong Baudi, Zeliangrong Youth Front, student leaders, senior citizens, scholars, former organisational leaders, and concerned citizens of the community attended the discussion programme.
During the discussion, ZCOs strongly emphasised that the proposal to delete over 14,000 voters from three Assembly Constituencies in Tamenglong/Noney districts on the ground of duplicate photos should only be processed after seeking the views and consent of the voters concerned.
While pointing out that any decision without proper identification or verification violate citizens' constitutional rights, the ZCOs urged authorities to respect citizens' rights and engage them in the process.
The ZCOs also alleged alteration of Tamenglong district's boundary during the creation of Jiribam district, and reminded all concerned that they had highlighted absence of consultation with the people through the District Re-Organisation Committee formed in 2018.They called for a review of the alteration, emphasising the importance of seeking public opinion and ensuring democratic principles are upheld.
The Zeliangrong bodies also urged authorities to expedite the construction of the Rani Maa (Rani Gaidinliu) Museum, a project proposed by the central government in honour of the Indian freedom fighter.
They further emphasised the need for expeditious completion of the project, originally planned at Makhan village in Senapati district, and later relocated to her native village.
The discussion programme also addressed the ongoing conflict between Kukis and Meeteis, which has lasted for over six months.
They emphasised that any resolution by the Government of India should consider the interests of all communities, particularly the indigenous Zeliangrong people.
ZCOs cautioned against marginalising the Zeliangrong community in the resolution process and called for a fair and just approach.
ZCOs concluded the discourse with a strong plea to the authorities to address these issues promptly and uphold democratic principles, ensuring that the rights and interests of the Zeliangrong community are considered in all decision-making processes.