CSOs push for decision on crisis ahead of assembly
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, February 08 2025:
Ahead of the 7th session of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly commencing from Monday, 14 civil society organisations (CSOs) have called for urgent and responsible decision-making to resolve the nearly two-year-old crisis in the state, urging legislators to prioritise peace and stability by addressing key issues.
The CSOs also demanded that the core issues are reflected in the Governor's Address - a dedicated discussion on the crisis, an immediate ceasefire, humanitarian assistance, and the immediate opening of National Highways.
"The state is at a critical crossroads", reminded a joint statement, issued by the Committee of Peaceful Coexistence, Manipur (CPCM), Meetei Meitei Tribe Union (MMTU), Federal Students' Organisation, Kangleipak (FESOK), United Meitei Pangal Committee (UMPC), Committee on Relief & Rehabilitation (CRR), Kanglei Panas (KP), Yelhoumee Phurup (YP), Apunba Awonba Manipur Amagidamak (AAMA), All India Tanzeeme Insaaf (AITI), Imagi Meira (IM), All Manipur Meitei Pangal Clubs' Organisation (AM-MPACO), Youth Collective Manipur (YCM), Nupi Union For Peace and Integrity (NUPI), and Manipur International Youth Centre (MIYC) .
The statement maintained that over 60,000 individuals remain displaced, struggling in poorly managed relief camps lacking basic necessities, healthcare, and sanitation, with the deteriorating conditions amid severe health risks and psychological trauma, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
The organisations criticised the government for failing to curb illegal immigration, particularly from Myanmar, which, they claim, has disrupted demographic balance and intensified resource competition.
They also reiterated their demand for the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) to address the issue, stating that the response so far has been insufficient.
The joint statement further accused Kuki armed groups of carrying out violent attacks against civilians since May 3, 2023, resulting in devastating loss of life and property.
They alleged that these actions violate human rights and international humanitarian law, yet ineffective law enforcement has emboldened the perpetrators and criticised both the state and central governments for failing to restore stability, implement a comprehensive peace plan, and ensure adequate security measures.
As the Manipur Legislative Assembly session approaches, the organisations urged legislators to ensure that the Governor's customary address includes provisions for restoring peace in the state, while also calling for a dedicated 2-3 day discussion on the Manipur crisis before deliberating on Budget Estimates 2025 26 and Supplementary Demands for Grants 2024-25.Pushing for an unconditional ceasefire, immediate humanitarian assistance for displaced populations, and the opening of National Highways with adequate security deployment, the statement urged all stakeholders-CSOs, student bodies, youth organisations, and Meira Paibi Lups - to unite in demanding a peaceful resolution during the ensuing Assembly session.
The joint statement then called on the government to cease intimidation tactics and stop lodging FIRs against women and Meira Paibi activists.
Comment
