Kangpokpi protests PMP and associated Bills
Source: The Sangai Express
Kangpokpi, September 04 2015 :
A sit-in-protest against the three Bills passed by the State Assembly which are seen as 'anti-tribal' was held today at Kangpokpi bazar.
he sit-in-protest was organized by civil society organizations of Sadar Hills to protest the alleged "anti-tribal" Bills passed in the State Assembly on August 31 .
Various communities within Kangpokpi and its adjoining areas took part in the sit-in-protest where they put up placards reading, "We reject PMP Bill 2015 and MLR&LR Act (7th Amendment) Bill, 2015", "O Ibobi Govt is anti-tribal", "We are against the use of live bullets", "Separate administration for tribals", "We demand resignation of all tribal Ministers, MLAs, dismissal of O.Ibobi's Government, imposition of President Rule", "Revoke the three Bills", "We support 48 hrs bandh called by UNC" .
Meanwhile, black flags were hung within the Kangpokpi town vicinity to show solidarity to the killing of several tribal youths in Churachandpur by State security forces.
Speaking to media persons, Lamcha Chongloi, spokesperson of CSOs Sadar Hills said that the tribals are being 'massacred' by State forces and systematically targeted while adding that "our rights are being violated and we do not feel safe under O Ibobi's rule" .
The sit-in was organized to show deep opposition to the three Bills passed in the State Assembly which is totally against the tribal, added Lamcha Chongloi.
He continued that the State Government should at the earliest revoke the Bills as desired by the tribal populace.
He further said that the atrocities of the State security forces in Churachandpur has been condemned in the strongest term by the Sadar Hills CSOs and we salute the sacrifices made by the tribal youths for the cause of the tribal populace.
He also conveyed sincere condolence to the bereaved families.
At the same time, a protest meeting was organised at Gamgiphai, Motbung against the three Bills passed by the State Assembly on Aug 31 .
The meeting was organised by the Thadou Youth Association (Ghqs) in association with KSO-SH, TSA-SH, Motbung Area Women Union and other local clubs.
The meeting reiterated the earlier demands of TYA, according to a statement.
Separate administration for the tribals, resignation of tribal MLAs and MPs, CBI enquiry against the use of foreign bullets and no talks with GoM and any organisations until the withdrawal of the Bills.
The demonstrators also held a condolence programme.
Two-minute silence was observed to show respect and honour to the departed tribal youth who made the supreme sacrifices for the cause of the tribal and their ancestral land.
Nine candles were lit in honour of the 'martyrs' .
A special prayer was also held for the families of the departed souls.