RPZI urges HAC chairman, Kangla Board for amicable solution
Source: Chronicle News Service / Kaimuanthang Mangte

Churachandpur, August 17 2021: Research and Preservation of the Zo Identities (RPZI) has requested Hill Areas Committee (HAC) chairman K Leishiyo to look into the various memos it had submitted to authorities concerned pertaining to what RPZI terms as the incorrect Chivu Stone inscription, which has greatly impacted the tribals of Manipur, especially the Zo people.

In a memorandum submitted to the HAC chairman, RPZI stated that there has not been any official response from the government of Manipur to the Kangla Fort Board, Manipur and the Archaeological Survey of India, New Delhi with regard to the Chivu Stone inscription and construction of Chandra -kirti Park at Tonjang village under Singngat sub-division before an amicable solution.

As the leader (chairman) of HAC, he is expected to champion the cause of the tribals, stated the memorandum, which was submitted jointly by RPZI chairman Khamkhanthuam and general secretary V Chinkhenpau on Monday.

In a separate memorandum submitted on the same day, the RPZI made an appeal to the superintendent of Kangla Fort Board and Manipur State Archaeology Department to halt any construction work at Tonjang until an amicable solution is arrived at.

It said that in spite of the ongoing discussions between Kangla Fort Board and RPZI, construction works on the infamous Chandrakirti Park are in full swing.

It further said that RPZI has been urged by the board and the Singngat MLA to give a proposal about the inscriptions on the Chivu stone and the related park in response to which a proposal has been forwarded on March 18, 2021 (File No RPZI/ Memo/2021 /01) in written to the Kangla Fort Board.

In the memo, RPZI expressed regret that its interest has not been acknowledged and instead construction has been going on which the organisation has taken it as an insult and utter disrespect.

It said, "It is clear from your action that you do not care the interest and the sentiments of the tribals...Considering our negotiations, RPZI has been subduing the heightening anger and disappointment of the masses in Chivu...With your insensible and imprudent attitude towards the matter, we cannot ascertain how long the RPZI will be able to put the public anger at bay".

RPZI further stated that in case the matter gets out of hand, the Kangla Fort Board and the government will be solely responsible.

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