International Day of World's Indigenous Peoples 2025
Indigenous people resolve to resist illegal immigration
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 09 2025: As in other places, the World Indigenous Day 2025 was observed at the City Convention Centre, here, today.

Hosted by Indigenous People's Forum, Manipur (IPFM) under the aegis of North East Indigenous People's Forum (NEIPF), the event was held under the theme "Indigenous People's Right to Self Determination : A Pathway for Food Security and Sovereignty" .

Representatives from various States gathered for the observance and adopted a collective resolution to resist illegal immigration, which poses a significant threat to the region's ancestral lands, distinct cultural identity, and demographic balance.

Addressing the function as chief guest, Tripura royal scion Pradyot Manikya Deb Banna who founded Tipra Motha emphasized the need for collective action among the indigenous people of the North Eastern States to protect their interests and future.

He questioned why deporting illegal immigrants from Bangladesh and Myanmar from the soil of North East India would be wrong when the United States President Donald Trump has deported numerous Indians from America.

Pradyot urged the indigenous people of North East India to unite against the influx of illegal immigrants.

Expressing concern over the crisis besetting Manipur, he said that National political parties won't be able to effectively save the indigenous people of North East States.

He stressed the need for collective action to safeguard the rights and interests of the indigenous population.

Emphasising the need for a dialogue among Manipur's indigenous people to resolve the crisis, he urged every Manipuri to prevent National political parties from exploiting the situation for their own gain.

He said that different issues will emerge in the region if the Government of India doesn't take the interest of North East's indigenous people seriously.

Highlighting the rich historical heritage of Manipur and Tripura, both ancient kingdoms with thousands of years of history, the Tripura royal scion said that the perceived neglect of their history after merging with India needs to be addressed collectively.

Asserting that mainland India has been neglecting the interests of North East people, he added that indigenous communities, however, are the rightful owners of their land despite threats from external forces.

"We must safeguard our land with pride," he said.

Pradyot further stated that the indigenous people of North East India should prioritize unity and cooperation to safeguard their future, rather than relying on politicians whose primary concern is winning elections.

Celebrating World Indigenous Day once a year is not enough, he said and added uniting the indigenous people of North East India requires sustained efforts.

He emphasized the need for more collaboration on common interests to strengthen their cause.

Proudly highlighting the bravery of Manipur's ancestors who fearlessly fought against the British to protect their kingdom's sovereignty, he called upon the people of Manipur to face modem challenges with the same spirit.

He also highlighted the historical ties between the two regions by mentioning that Tripuris refer to Manipur as Kangleipak, while Manipuris call Tripura Takhel.

He also said that Manipur and Tripura share close ties since ages.

NEIPF chairman Anup Chetia said that the forum's mission is not to target any residents of North East India.

He also said that a particular organisation banning the observance of World Indigenous Day is unfortunate.

Saying that illegal immigrants have significantly impacted the socio-economic fabric of North East India, he urged the region's residents to ensure immigrants do not assume ownership of the land.

Not all tribes are indigenous and there is no guarantee that all indigenous should be tribal, he said.

A declaration issued by representatives from different States and organisations reaffirmed the unity of North East's indigenous people in the fight against illicit drugs that 'endanger our youths, corrupt our society and threaten the very future of our people' .

The declaration also upholds the right to self-determination of the indigenous people and pledged to stand united as one indigenous people, one voice, one movement for the dignity and survival of all the indigenous communities across North East India.

Lamlai AC MLA Kh Ibomcha, former rebel leader RK Meghen, Assam MLA Ponakon Baruah, Tripura MLA Ranjit Debbarma and IPFM vice president Rohen Philem also attended the programme, among others.

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