JCILPS threatens to expand ILP protest, says Govt trying to sideline ILP issue
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, July 30 2015: Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System (JCILPS) on Thursday reiterated its stand to widen the public protest against the Manipur Government over the demand for implementation of Inner Line Permit System (ILPS) to safeguard the indigenous people.

At a press meet, JCILPS Convenor-in-Charge Khomdram Ratan said that the people were disappointed with the silence maintained by the Government over the widespread public protest.

He said that the Government is not keen to take prompt and specific actions on the proposed new ILP Bill and make them public till date.

The Government is citing Constitutional constraints anticipating negative response from the President of India in presenting a strong ILP Bill to curb unchecked influx of non-locals into the State, Ratan observed.

ILP protest

He further said earlier, the Government had accepted all opinions and suggestions recommended by experts before drafting the controversial botched ILP Bill which was finally withdrawn following intense public pressure.

Ratan said asking fresh opinions and suggestions from the public are uncalled for as the Government now has enough recommendations already submitted by experts.

JCILPS will continue to lead the public movement for ILPS as the insincerity in Government policy on ILPS is clearly visible, Ratan underlined.

The civil disobedience movement against the Government had begun from Thursday, he said and announced that sit-ins and torch rallies will continue to press for the demand.

He also threatened to impose curfew on all Government offices.

ILP protest

JCILPS also stated that the committee will announce a series of intensified agitations against the Government soon and sought people's support and cooperation.

Ratan expressed regret over the press statement by Tribal Youth Council, Manipur (TYCM) Secretary LH Decemhring for appealing organisations not to force tribal people on joining the ILPS movement.

He clarified that tribal people have been taking part in the movement aimed at protecting all indigenous people of the land.

Ratan reminded TYCM not to undermine the public protest.

He also made a fervent appeal to the public to stop harassing and ridiculing media persons who are covering the ILP protest.

He further appealed to the public not to obstruct patients, doctors and other hospital staff on their way to and from hospsitals and religious activities.