Imphal, August 28: The 7th foundation day of United People's Front (UPF), Manipur was celebrated at the hall of Manipur Dramatic Union, Yaiskul today.

The function was attended by representatives of various of social organisations and the Meira Paibis.

Speaking as chief guest at the function, member of Manipur Human Rights Commission (MHRC) RK Rajendra stressed on re-organising the existing nine districts of the State in the interest of bringing integrity and administrative conveniences.

The demarcation of the boundaries of the existing districts is one of the main factors for breeding communal sentiments and distrust among the people, he observed.

Instead of making the valley districts only for the valley people and the hill districts only for the hill people, there is the need to include parts of the hills and the valley areas while demarcating the boundary of the districts, he said, adding that this arrangement will help in bringing the hill and the valley people closer to each other and bind them.

Stating that one practical theory is much better than thousand others which are impractical, Rajendra said that one should not simply throw himself/herself in any agitation being taken up in the name of integrity of the State without a clear understanding of the ground realities.

Apart from the outside forces which are trying to disintegrate Manipur, there are internal forces which are also trying to distort even the History of the land, he cautioned and added that all should collectively give a fitting reply to such forces even at the cost of their lives.

In his presidential address, MAFYF advisor Y Devdutta said "despite raising our voice against the undemocratic measures taken up by the Government of India towards the people of Manipur, there are certain elements among our midst who are resorting to the same undemocratic pressures and tactics".

On the issue of banning Manipuri digital films, he maintained mat a complete ban on it would be a wrong step as it would affect the career of many budding artistes and technicians for whom it has come a source of livelihood.

Instead of putting a complete ban on the digital films, attention should be directed towards those who are acting like agents of colonialism.

Commenting on the achievements of UPF since its inception on August 28, 1998, Devdutta also appealed to the people to continue with their support and co-operation with the UPF".

A host of personalities including social activists RK Ranendrajit, social worker David Kamei, UCM president in-charge K Lanngamba, general secretary of Nupi Samaj Th Ramani and UPF advisor Joy Ningthouja graced the occasion as guests of honour at the occasion.

Representatives of various organisations including the former president of All Assam Manipuri Students' Union Amusana also spoke and shared their opinions during the function.

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