International Day of Indigenous Peoples observed
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, August 09 2022: Meetei Students' Association, Manipur University (MSA, MU) and Manipur University Students' Union (MUSU) jointly observed International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples at the conference hall of Manipur Institute of Management Studies (MIMS), MU on Tuesday.

In a release, MSA-MU publicity secretary Moirangthem Sajan informed that the observance was attended by Wangkhei MLA Thangjam Arunkumar as chief guest and MSA-MU president Haobijam Nikel as president while Department of English and Cultural Studies, MU head professor Thounaojam Ratankumar, Department of Education head professor Premlata Maisnam and MUSU president Sanasam Steven were present as guests of honour.

The observance was held so as to strengthen the bond of love among the indigenous communities of the state.

Later, young writers recited their poems as a part of the event.

LMS Law College also organised 'World Indigenous Day' observance at its Chingmeirong campus.

The observance presided over by principal Md Salatur Rahaman was attended by DM University vice chancellor Prof N Rajmuhon Singh as chief guest, Manipur Human Rights Commission former member Ng Nongyai as guest of honour and IGNTU regional cam pus Manipur Department of Political Science assistant professor Dr Homen Thangjam as resource person.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof Rajmohon appealed to all for preserving and protecting the language and culture while cautioning that the indigenes will be lost without it.

Kabui Union Manipur (KUM), All Manipur Kabui Women's Organisation, All Manipur Kabui Students' Union and Kabui Customary Council also observed the day on the theme 'The role of Indigenous Women in preservation and transmission of traditional knowledge' at KUM office, Mahabali.

Speaking at the event, KUM president Dr K Heera Kabui pointed out that though Kabui is one of the indigenous communities of Manipur they get easily mesmerised by the new systems of faith, which are alien to their ancestors.

They are losing in every sphere like traditional festivals, customary rituals, literatures, ancestral faith, costumes, etc., he noted and stressed the importance to place grievances, if any, before forums concerned or the government for protecting their rights given by UNO and Indian constitution.

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