FIDM, Kabui bodies oppose celebration of two-day cultural exchange festival
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, November 26 2024: The Federation of Indigenous People's Democratic Movement (FIDM) and four Kabui bodies of Manipur have come out strongly against the celebration of Manipur Indigenous People's Cultural Exchange Festival, 2024, terming it "untimely" in view of the ongoing conflict.

A press release jointly issued by the respective presidents of Kabui Women's Organisation, Kabui Students' Organisation, Kabui Customary Council Manipur and Kabui Union Manipur has questioned the Indigenous People's Forum Manipur (IPFM) if the cultural exchange festival based on the theme "Manipur united by diversity" will bring back the lives lost or return displaced folks to their original homes.

Recalling the collective grief and sense of loss felt by the public, the press note reminded the Indigenous People's Forum about the recent inhumane killings of three women and three children by Kuki militants at Jiribam.

It questioned if anyone has the heart to engage in cheerful dance and celebrations in such circumstances.

It added that the festival may "indicate the greater misunderstanding among indigenous communities while one of our indigenous communities, Meeteis, are in deep sorrow.

It is right for the remaining indigenous communities to share their grievances and sorrows, added the press note.

Additionally, the Kabui Customary Council is planning to hold a prayer service accompanied by customary rituals November 27 at Sawombung Kabui Khunjao for the loss of lives and peace and integrity of indigenous people of Manipur.

Moreover a press release issued by M Nanao Meitei, secretary organisation of FIDM has strongly opposed the celebration of Manipur Indigenous People's Cultural Exchange Festival, 2024 on November 29 and 30 at Chadong in Kamjong district.

FIDM has appealed for the two-day festival to be postponed stating that the venue is in a red zone area and the State and people are still reeling from the heinous killing of six innocent civilians by Kuki militants as well as fatal gun attack on a woman working in the paddyfield, several injuries etc.

In the midst of such a volatile situation, FIDM has questioned how people can indulge in celebrations.

It added that intercommunity relations among indigenous people might suffer if the festival is conducted.

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