'Protect indigenes' call issued
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 09 2022: The Indigenous People's Association of Kangleipak (IPAK) observed the International Day of World's Indigenous People at Manipur Press Club, today.

At the observance, IPAK president Ksh Somorendro said that Manipur is currently living in a difficult situation when other States and countries are focusing on protecting their indigenous people along with their art and culture.

He added that foreign Nationals who have a somewhat identical culture with that of the indigenous people continue to enter the State unlawfully and they blend with the indigenous people.

Saying that there is lack of understanding between the indigenous people of Manipur and imposition of economic and counter economic blockade is a validation of it, Somorendro said that the survival of the indigenous people and fighting the external force such as entry of foreign Nationals illegally will be difficult if there is disunity among them.

He further stated that the State will move backward if the Government doesn't see the gravity of the situation and prevent the influx of foreign Nationals and non locals into Manipur unlawfully.

The indigenous people will cease to exist if 'we and our culture are overwhelmed by the outsiders,' he cautioned and appealed to all to play their part in strengthening the indigenous people of the State and in promoting 'our culture.' IPAK advisor Sapamcha Jadumani, PPCM convenor Maibam Bisheshwor, UCM president Joychandra Konthoujam, IPSA president Tourangbam Birjit, ACOAM-Lup Kangleipak president Sanjit Soraisam and JCILPS convenors Heikrujam Ibotombi Khuman and Yumnamcha Dilipkumar also attended the programme.

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