CorCom calls general strike on Oct 15
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, October 10 2012: In protest against the 'unfortunate and forceful' 1949 merger agreement between the then King of Manipur, Budhachandra and Indian government, Coordination Committee (CorCom) of seven UG groups namely KCP, KYKL, PREPAK, PREPAK (Pro) , RPF and UPPK has called upon the people of Manipur to observe the day as 'National Black Day' .

CorCom has also called a total general strike on 15th October 2012 .

In a statement, CorCom asserted that Indian government forced King Budhachandra to sign the merger agreement on 15th October 1949 under duress at Shillong and as a result a sovereign Manipur was annexed.

"Expressing our discontentment over the lost of sovereignty in the hand of imperialist India, every year, October 15 is being observed observing as National Black Day along with imposing a total general strike from 0.00 hours of 15 October to 6pm", the statement said.

Urging all the people of Manipur to support the general strike, CorCom appealed for closure of all the commercial shops, government and private offices in the state.

Movement of vehicles and people along the streets and other entertainment gatherings are strictly restricted during the general strike.

However, the restriction is exempt for essential services and activities like ritual ceremonies, media and public utility services.

According to Cheitharol Kumbaba, the first constitution "Loiyumba Sinyel" came into existence during the reign of Loyumba (1074-1122 AD) and Budhachandra started democratic process in Manipur along with electing the first Manipur Assembly on October 18, 1948 .

A total number of 53 representatives were elected and conducted the legislative assembly session, said CorCom.

CorCom also reiterated that the ongoing war for freedom is not against the people of India.

It is war between the India and Manipur.

In its course to regain the lost sovereignty, CorCom will continue to fight against the colonial ruler and it will stop only when Manipur regains its sovereignty.

Comment