JCILPS opposes plan to implement CAA
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, February 01 2024:
While contending that the recent statement made by a union minister regarding implementation of Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), 2019 across the country is creating confusion among the people of the state as a letter from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Foreigners Division sent in September 2020 assured non-implementation of the Act in areas where ILP system under Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873 is effective, Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System (JCILPS) raised strong objection against the centre's move for implementation of CAA in the state.
In a release, JCILPS convenor Thiyam Sharatchandra denounced the government of India for raking up the issue of CAA again amidst the on-going unrest situation in the state and the people's demand for updating NRC to detect outsiders.
Recalling movement launched against CAA in the Northeast, he said that the public uprising led to formation of Manipur People Against Citizenship Bill (MANPAC) which spearheaded the agitation against the contentious Act.
Later, a public convention was held with representatives of all the north-eastern states and subsequently formed the 'North East Federation of Indigenous People' to oppose CAB in the region.
Acknowledging absence of effective mechanism to protect the indigenous people from the influx of outsiders and foreigners, the then President of India gave assent to implementation of ILP system in the state.
As such.
ILP system became effective since December 31, 2019, Sharatchandra recounted.
He further stated that Manipur is currently in flame and the people are facing violence perpetrated by Chin-Kuki militants.
The attempt to implement CAA in the entire nation should not include Manipur.
If the government attempts to implement CAA in Manipur launch of intense public protest cannot be ruled out, he cautioned.