Panel discussion on 'Legitimate street protest and Constitutional immorality' conducted
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, February 05 2024: A panel discussion on "Legitimate Street Protest And Constitutional Immorality" under the College Students Mentoring Initiative (COSMI) was held at the conference hall of T..SPaul Manipur Wo-men's College (TSPMWC), Mongshangei, Imphal west district on Saturday.

The panel discussion was organised by the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) in association with the Department of Political Science and Department of Zoology, T S Paul Manipur Women's College under the sponsorship of the Directorate of University and Higher Education (DUHE), Government of Manipur, said a release issued by TSPMWC.

Panel discussion on 'Legitimate street protest and Constitutional immorality' conducted

The discussion moderated by Yumnam Rupachandra, editor-in-chief, Impact News included Dr RK Nimai Singh, retired Commissioner of Youth Affairs and Sports; K Bipin Chandra Sharma, retired District & Session Judge; Potsangbam Dhana-kumar Singh, ex-Chairman of BOSEM and Dr MC Arun-kumar, Professor, Department of Anthropology, Manipur University as panellist.

Highlighting the role of students in leading street protests, Dr RK Nimai Singh said, "The Constitution serves as the bedrock for the right to protest.

However, it is imperative that in exercising this right, individuals do not infringe upon the rights of others" .

He asserted that the current unfolding situation is a consequence of systemic failures, where those in positions of power have manipulated Constitutional values for their own gain.

"It is crucial to recognize that the Constitution is the common thread that binds us all together, transcending individual power dynamics.

No one, regardless of their might, stands above the principles enshrined in the constitution", he added.

K Bipin Chandra Sharma remarked, "Article 19(1)(a) and 19(1)(b) of the Indian Constitution confer upon citizens the Fundamental Right to Freedom of Speech & Expression, as well as the right to assemble peacefully and without arms.

These constitutional provisions underscore the foundational values of free speech and peaceful assembly as essential pillars of a democratic and pluralistic society" .

Pointing out that protest has been an inherent aspect of human existence since time immemorial, Potsangbam Dhanakumar said, "While peaceful demonstrations serve as a powerful means of expressing discontent or advocating for change, it's crucial to acknowledge that they can sometimes escalate into violence.

Managing crowds and protests demands a profound understanding of the dynamics involved" .

Later, an interactive session was also conducted between the panellists and the students.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Thiam Nandita Devi, principal, TSPMWC.