Unity prerequisite for solving problems, says Meghen
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, December 12 2011: Denouncing the remarks of Union Home Minister P Chidambaram that none had lodged complaint over the protracted economic blockade imposed along the National Highways in Manipur as irresponsible, Chairman of the proscribed UNLF RK Meghen asserted it was nothing more than encouraging bloodshed among the different communities living in Manipur.

Talking to mediapersons while being brought to the Special Court of NIA at Guwahati today, Meghen said that people in the valley of Manipur have shown their maturity by remaining calm and composed in the face of hardships caused from prolonged imposition of economic blockade along the National Highways.

He contended that Indian administrative over the last 60 years has done nothing but setting one community against another.

If such an administration which is the anti-thesis of unity of the hill and valley people is continued to be tolerated, then the day would not be far when people, both in the hill and the valley would lost even their traces.

Until and unless, there is unity, no problem, whether it is that of alternative arrangement or Sadar Hills district demand, would be solved, the UNLF Chief added.

Meghen pointed out that till date there has been no adequate investment for the people of Manipur.

There is the need to utilize the available resources and improve the economy of the state through sweat and toil of the people.

It is a fallacy to think that the people of Manipur would gain anything from the Look East Policy, which aims at economic globalization.

There is no infrastructure in Manipur which can absorb economic globalization.

Economic globalization would only give a serious impact on the people of underdeveloped states/regions.

For reaping the benefit of Look East Policy, a separate policy either for Manipur alone or for the whole North East region is essential.

Objecting to construction of Tipaimukh dam, Meghen said that it would not only cause mass destruction to the eco-system of Manipur, but would also drain away its water resource, thus subjecting the people to economic exploitation.

He called on the the public should oppose construction of the dam.

There are International treaties which impose ban on construction of big dams and construction of a big dam like Tipaimukh dam in a seismic zone may lead to a catastrophe.

Since there is also no possibility of setting up large industries in Manipur, construction of mini-hydel projects for running small and medium industries may be more appropriate, the UNLF Chairman opined.

Along with Meghen, 13 other people including M Joy, N Mani, O Sormojit, S Rakesh, W Noren, M Sarat, Kh Jiten, S Gune, M Ibohal, Ch Bembem, O Maniton, L Jateshor and Th Prem, who have been booked under Unlawful Activities Prevention Act by the NIA, were produced before the Special Court of NIA at Guwahati in the afternoon today for hearing the argument of the defense counsel.

However, at the request of the defense counsel, the court has deferred the argument till December 26 .

Comment