Won't tolerate any attempt to disintegrate Manipur: UCM
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, December 17 2022: The United Committee Manipur (UCM) has categorically stated that it would not tolerate any threat to the integrity of Manipur or any attempt to create a State within a State.

Speaking to media persons at their Lamphelpat office this afternoon, UCM president Joychandra Kon-thoujam reminded that the UCM has been standing firm against all challenges to the integrity of Manipur and the sanctity of its territorial boundary.

Pointing out that the UCM was set up to fight for the same cause, Joychandra asserted that the UCM would always stand firm for the integrity of Manipur.

Before Manipur became a State of India, Manipur existed as an independent kingdom and it has a very long history.

Won't tolerate any attempt to disintegrate Manipur: UCM

Noting that Manipur is the common home of many ethnic groups and communities, the UCM president cautioned the Government of India that it should not do any anything in the interest of a single community or two which can disintegrate Manipur.

He also said that no ethnic group or community should take any step which challenges the integrity of Manipur and the sanctity of its territorial boundary.

It is matter of grave concern that some groups have been demanding Kukiland or Zalengam and greater Nagalim.

The UCM will always stand firm against all such demands, he said.

If any group is intent on demanding Kukiland, they may do so in Myanmar or other relevant State(s) .

Likewise, the demand for greater Nagalim should be made somewhere else, not in Manipur, the UCM president said.

He also appealed to all the people to give up ethno-centric politics and policies, and not to let others arbitrate in 'family matters' .

No ethnic group should take any complaint or grievance to the Central Government or State Government without first consulting other ethnic groups of the State.

The UCM will not remain silent if any group starts acting in their selfish interest at the cost of the collective interest of Manipur, Joychandra said.

Nonetheless, the UCM would always welcome any step to discuss all issues and problems among the communities of Manipur and explore solutions collectively, he said.

He then called upon all the ethnic groups to safeguard the territorial boundary of Manipur, drawn by the ancestors, and strengthen the bond of fraternity in order to ensure peaceful co-existence and collective development.

In case any group does not respect the UCM's appeal and act in defiance, the UCM would be constrained to fight back in befitting manner, Joychandra added.