RNCM opposes proposed oil project in Zeilad Sanctuary
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, October 19 2024: Rongmei Naga Council Manipur (RNCM) has come out strongly against the proposed oil exploration in Zeilad Wildlife Sanctuary, specifically in regions D2 and D3 - a project which has garnered wide attention on social media and other platforms, and sparked grave concern within the Rongmei community.

In a press release, RNCM, representing the interests of the Rongmei people, urged the public and all stakeholders to consider the Council's official stance on the matter.

"As a public representative body, RNCM emphasised its responsibility to oppose any documentation or effort that seeks to promote the controversial project," it stated.

The Council also decried the involvement of certain entrepreneurs, social activists, and individuals in positions of power who, in collusion with government agencies, are advancing the oil exploration agenda.

RNCM believed that these vested interests are against the public interest and in violation of the rights of the indigenous Rongmei Naga tribe.

"The project undermines the rights of the tribal community, as enshrined in Article 371 (C) of the Indian Constitution, which provides special protections for the indigenous tribal hill dwellers of Manipur," RNCM pointed out.

RNCM noted that attempts to justify the exploitation of the region's natural wealth through constitutional amendments, acts, and policies with hidden motives are a direct affront to the community's right to its ancestral land and resources.

Calling upon every individual and group within the Rongmei community to unite and stand against what it termed as systemic infringements on their rights and territorial integrity', the Council invoked the duty to protect the legacies and rich heritage of their forefathers, which have been safeguarded since time immemorial.

It warned individuals or groups against promoting the project, declaring that such actions would be seen as acts of treason against the tribe and the nation.

At the same time, the Council urged all parties concerned to respect the sentiments of the Rongmei people and to work collectively to secure the future of the community for the generations to come.

Reaffirming its commitment to preserving the cultural and natural heritage of the Rongmei Naga tribe, RNCM called on all stakeholders to reconsider their stance on the proposed project in the Zeilad Wildlife Sanctuary.

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