'NRC should follow proactive actions'
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, March 02 2025: The return of arms by civilians reflects a "renewed trust" in the Centre's commitment to safety of the citizens, the Meitei Alliance has said, urging the Government of India to show its teeth and deliver on directives given by the Home Minister recently and also to implement the NRC.

"We deeply appreciate the decisive leadership of the Honorable Home Minister of India, and Governor of Manipur whose recent directives mark a significant step toward restoring safety, security, and social harmony in the region," it said in a statement released to the media today.

One of the most crucial outcomes of this initiative has been the return of arms by civilians, who had taken up weapons to protect themselves, their families, and their communities against external Kuki terrorist threats, it said.

"This act reflects a renewed trust in the Central Government's commitment to ensuring the safety of all citizens and preventing militant groups from targeting innocent civilians," it added.

Hailing the Union Home Minister Amit Shah's directives, Meitei Alliance said, the Government's determination to dismantle the entire drug trade network is a crucial step toward securing not only the well-being of the Nation's youth but also helping to stop the funding for many militant groups seeking to divide Manipur along ethnic lines.

The directive to guarantee free movement for the public on all roads in Manipur from March 8, 2025, will be a step toward restoring Manipur's age-old, multi-ethnic, pluralistic society.

It will also help revive the State's ailing economy, it said.

Further, the firm commitment to taking stringent action against all cases of extortion reinforces the State's dedication to protecting its citizens, keeping the National Highways open, and upholding the rule of law.

Also, the accelerated construction of border fencing at key entry points along the international border with Manipur is essential for enhancing security and curbing the smuggling of arms and drugs, it added.

The Meitei Alliance, however, asserted that besides these commendable measures, Manipur's rich and diverse pluralistic society, where different ethnic communities have coexisted in harmony for generations must be preserved.

"To maintain this balance, we firmly support the implementation of a robust National Register of Citizens (NRC) to identify illegal immigrants.

This measure is critical in addressing demographic imbalances that could threaten social harmony, and protecting the unique cultural heritage of our State," said the Meitei Alliance.

"The Meitei Alliance is committed to engaging with various communities in Manipur to gain a deeper understanding of their perspectives and explore pathways for peaceful coexistence.

Dialogue, mutual respect, and cooperation are essential in shaping a united and prosperous Manipur for future generations.

"We remain steadfast in our commitment to working alongside the Government to ensure the effective implementation of these initiatives.

By fostering a sense of security, stability, and inclusivity, we can collectively pave the way for lasting peace and progress in Manipur," said the alliance.

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