NE students call for ending crisis, aiding IDPs
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, October 29 2024: Hundreds of students from the north eastern states congregated in New Delhi on Tuesday to demand end to the protracted crisis in Manipur and immediate resettlement of the internally displaced persons (IDPs) .

The protest jointly organised by Delhi-based Manipur Innovative Youth Organisation (MAIYOND) and United Kakching Students (UNIKAS), resonated with a call for unity and integrity, underscoring the popular sentiments in Manipur for maintaining the state's territorial and administrative integrity.

A joint statement issued in this regard by the organisers informed that the peaceful protest, held under the banner "Save Manipur - No Compromise on Manipur's Territorial Integrity", highlighted the hardships faced by those displaced by the 18-month conflict and sought attention of both the central and state governments to act urgently in restoring peace and unity in the state.

In a show of solidarity, the North East Students' Society of Delhi University also joined the gathering, with representatives advocating unity among North East students in the capital.

In their collective appeal, the students expressed concern over the future of Manipur's youth, describing them as "the nation's pillars" whose education and mental well-being have been significantly disrupted.

They criticised the government s lukewarm response to the ongoing crisis, which has forced over 60,000 displaced individuals to live in makeshift camps with inadequate facilities.

Addressing the gathering, historian and geopolitical analyst Abhijit Chavda stressed the need for unity among the indigenous people of Manipur.

"Manipur's peace and harmony are of paramount importance and must be prioritised", Chavda said.

He observed that division among communities, a by-product of British-era policies, must not be allowed to persist, while emphasising that "the Indian national interest and the interests of Manipur's indigenous people are one and the same" .

Chavda also called for vigilance against those attempting to stir anti-national sentiments within Manipur.

Another speaker, Colonel (retired) Kishore Chand shared his perspective on the government's ongoing efforts to address the crisis, stating that various government agencies are tirelessly working to resolve the issues faced by IDPs and those affected by the violence.

"We are confident that perpetrators of these heinous crimes will be brought to justice and that those wronged will see justice delivered," Col Chand said.

Other speakers included retired Colonel (Retd) Shanti Kumar Sapam, social activists Kh Elizabeth and Rajshree Kumari, and Delhi University assistant professor Dr M Ojit Kumar Singh.

Each speaker voiced strong support for immediate resolution of the crisis, return of IDPs to their homes, and maintaining unity and integrity of Manipur.

Elizabeth and Rajshree also drew attention to the humanitarian needs of the IDPs and urged for prioritising their resettlement.

In the statement, MIAYOND and UNIKAS reiterated their commitment to a unified Manipur, condemning any proposals for territorial or ideological division as detrimental to social harmony and unity.

The organisations called upon students and citizens alike to continue advocating for peace and resilience in the face of adversity, reinforcing their stance that any division only weakens the social fabric of Manipur.

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