UPF observes 17th foundation day; discourse on Naga Peace Accord held
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, August 28 2015 :
United People's Front (UPF) on Friday celebrated its 17th foundation day with a panel discussion on the topic "NSCN (IM)-Government of India Framework Agreement" at Manipur Press Club here.
The inaugural function was attended by All Manipur Working Journalist Union (AMWJU) president Wangkhemcha Shamjai as chief guest, UPF president Oinam Bikramjit as president and United Committee Manipur (UCM) president Elangbam Johnson as guest of honour.
Giving the key note address, UPF secretary general Rupachandra said that people of the State have already sacrificed enough to protect the indigenous communities in Manipur.
But the people still need to stay alert as the ongoing peace process between the Government of India and NSCN (IM) can affect the territorial boundary of the State, added Rupachandra.
Oinam Bikramjit said that everyone should welcome the efforts on bringing about a political solution to the Indo-Naga conflict and nothing should hamper the peace process.
But the peace process should not affect any person and territorial boundaries and integrities of the neighbouring States and that the authorities concerned should know it, he said.
The name Naga is found nowhere in the 35 communities recognized by the Manipur Government, said Bikramjit.
He said those who consider themselves to be Nagas should live in Nagaland by leaving Manipur only for the Manipuris.
Prof W Nabakumar of Anthropology Department, Manipur University moderated the panel discussion.
Executive director of Human Rights Alert Manipur, Babloo Loitangbam, director of Change and Peace Building Action, RK Babychand and prof Ksh Bimola of Political Science Department, Manipur University spoke on different topics during the discourse.