Centre patronising outsiders, enraging natives: Noutuneshwari
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, June 11 2024: Manipur Women's Federation (MWF) celebrated its first foundation day at City Convention Centre, Palace Compound, here, on Tuesday.

Speaking as chief guest of the event, District and Sessions judge (Retired) A Noutuneshwari expressed serious concern that the state government has been unable to resolve the ongoing humanitarian crisis, lingering since May 3 last year.

While lamenting that the recent outbreak of violence in Jiribam has further complicated the situation, created an environment of uncertainty and demoralised the public, she also noted that the conflict has emboldened everyone to don the role of a soldier in their own way.

Highlighting her contributions in addressing the legal aspects of the crisis, Noutuneshwari reminded that the Supreme Court had directed relevant authorities to supply all essential commodities to those affected by the crisis.

While commending the people for engaging in fund-raiser activities and donation drives to aid the internally displaced people staying in relief camps, she pointed out that such efforts is actually the government's responsibility as per the court's directive and not the task of the public or village volunteers to defend villages from attacks by armed Kuki militants.

Moreover, as and when village volunteers are apprehended by the police under such circumstances, it becomes their personal problem, she lamented.

Pointing out the need to re-examine the merger agreement signed when Manipur, an independent kingdom, joined the Union of India, Noutuneshwari suggested that similar to the legal community closely monitoring the problem Manipur's titular king Leishemba Sanajaoba should accord priority on the same.

She also said that government of India's policy prioritising wellbeing of outsiders and undermining interest of its bonafide citizens is infuriating the masses and appealed to the women community to follow the right path for the sake of the motherland.

Furthermore, the elected representatives should unite and take up measures to save the indigenous people, the former judge maintained.

Delivering the presidential address, president Kh Shini Devi said that MWF despite existence of only a year, has made significant contributions to various movements for ensuring the welfare of the people.

The organisation has also undertaken initiatives to ensure that government's welfare activities reach the women's community.

Additionally, it has provided substantial support to the farming community, she said.

The function was also attended by Taragi Cheisu vice chairman P Sonamani, FOCS president Th Manihar, Imagi Meira convenor Th Sujata, Manipur Keithel Nupi Marup secretary L Memma and Universal Mother Organisation vice president RK Bhanupati as guests of honour.

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