'Public furore imminent if integrity threatened'
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, December 19 2024:
The public movement in the state could spiral out of control if there is any perceived threat to the territorial integrity of Manipur, despite verbal assurances from the Centre and the state government, cautioned Laitonjam Jayananda, who contested the last state assembly election from the Khurai constituency on NPP ticket.
He was speaking as the functional president at the 21st Raising Day celebration of the Universal Friendship Organisation (UFO), Top Yaral Konjil HQ No 4, on Thursday.
Jayananda underscored the sensitivity surrounding the territorial integrity of Manipur, emphasising that the state's boundaries, forged through the sacrifices of forefathers, must remain inviolable.
Despite assurances from the Centre and the state government about maintaining the state's territorial integrity, he expressed concern over the prevailing ground realities, pointing out that Meeteis are unable to cross Sekmai or access Churachandpur.
He cautioned that any sign of division within the state could spark uncontrollable public uprising.
Jayananda urged the government to act decisively to address the ongoing crisis, while warning that prolonging it would jeopardise the state's identity and unity.
He called on the state government to demonstrate its authority and commitment by holding a cabinet meeting in Churachandpur, in line with its previous practice of conducting cabinet meetings in hill district headquarters under the 'Go to Hills" mission.
Acknowledging the efforts of the Universal Friendship Organisation, also known as Satjal, Jayananda praised the group for spreading the message of peace, love, and universal friendship, values he deemed essential for the state's harmony.
Social worker Wahengbam Rojit (Bullet), who was the chief guest of the event, echoed the same sentiments, and commended UFO for promoting Meetei community on a global stage while advocating universal friendship.
Former Top Dusara GP pradhan, Mayanglambam Surbala, who attended the event as the guest of honour, also commended the organisation's philosophies and contributions.