Hoist black flags on R-Day: PPCM
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 23 2024:
The Protection and Preservation Committee, Manipur (PPCM), a conglomerate of student bodies and civil society organisations, has urged people to hoist or display black flags on January 26 Republic Day.
The black flags may be hoisted or displayed at the localities, houses, markets, shops, clubs and offices, it said, adding the gesture is to condemn the Government of India's failure to end the present crisis.
In a statement released by its publicity convenor, Brojen Meitei, PPCM said by displaying the black flags, the whole world must be shown how the indigenous people of Manipur are suffering due to the onslaught of Kuki militants since May 3, 2023 .
It said the black flags may be hoisted/displayed starting 9.30 am, the time when the RD celebration starts on January 26 .
Seeking a safe haven for illegal drug business and craving for land, Kuki militants had hatched a plan to disintegrate Manipur.
While the violent conflict that broke as a result on May 3 has killed many and displaced thousands of people, the Government of India has done little to end the crisis and bring peace, it said.
The black flags on Republic Day would display Manipur's strong condemnation against the failed policies of the Indian Government and failures before the world, PPCM added.
In the more than 8-month conflict, Kuki militants have killed many civilians and burnt hundreds of houses of the indigenous Meitei people.
While the Government of India hasn't heard the cries of the victims of the crisis, the Central security forces have been allegedly seen taking the side of the Kuki militants, said PPCM.
It said the Government of India, while it understands the actual crisis, is supporting the Kuki militants by not scrapping the Suspension of Operation (SoO) pact.
Even after the Ground Rules of the SoO Agreement have been violated by Kuki militants, the Government of India has not taken any steps.
Under such circumstances, the people of Manipur, especially Meiteis should not take part in the Republic Day celebration, said PPCM.
Appealing to all civil organisations and local clubs for their support, it urged people to show unity and display black flags on RD Day to show their grievances.
Protection and Preservation Committee, Manipur (PPCM) is a conglomerate of 36 organisations comprising 15 Meira Paibi Lups, 13 CSOs including AMUCO, four student bodies and four farmers' organisations.