Indigenous People's Day Call for ILP reverberates throughout
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 09, 2013: Reiterating the demand for implementation of Inner Line Permit System in Manipur, International Day of the World's Indigenous People was observed in the State as in other parts of the world today.

The main function was organised at Lamyanba Shanglen, Palace Compound by Student's Wing of Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System (JCILPS).

Prior to the main function, a cycle rally was flagged off from Nambol Higher Secondary School.

The rally passed through Kwakeithel, Khoyathong road, Pishumthong, Singjamei Bazar, Yaiskul, Keishamthong, Keishampat, Wahengbam Leikai, Lilashing Khongnangkhong, Chingmeirong, North AOC, Minuthong and Hatta before culminating at the function venue at Lamyanba Shanglen.

Speaking at the function, Student's Wing Convenor Angamba said, the State Government must protect the right of indigenous people of the State with the early implementation of ILPS, which has already been passed in the State Legislative Assembly.

JCILPS Co-Convenor Jay Chingkham, former Minister RV Mingthing Tangkhul and Kuki Organisation for Human Rights Chairman P Kipgen Kuki attended the function as presidium members.

Giving keynote address, JCILPS Media Co-ordinator Somorendro Thokchom said, the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations instituted the Working Group on Indigenous Population of the Subcommission on the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights in 1982. After drafting of Declaration on Right of Indigenous People in 1985, the United Nations General Assembly pronounced on December 23, 1994 to observe August 9 as International Day of the World's Indigenous People to promote and protect the rights of the world's indigenous population, he added.

Somorendro further said that protection and development of economy, socio-culture, tradition, territory, natural resource, human rights and right to self determination are the objectives of observing the day.

Although, India is a signatory of the UN Declaration on Right of Indigenous People, the country is imposing black laws in the States where indigenous people are inhabiting, he pointed out.

He further alleged that India is not only violating human rights in these States but also exploiting natural resources and allowing influx of non-indigenous people.

Speaking at the occasion, PANDAM President observed that the demand for implementation of ILPS is not anti-national.

Delay in this regard is due to the lack of political commitment of the State Government he said and added that ILPS was passed in the State Assembly to appease the agitating people.

Several leaders of civil society organisations and senior citizens also spoke in today's function.

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