Unity of indigenes urged at UN Day event
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, October 24 2024: Pambei-led UNLF Department of HRD's assistant secretary Thangjam Ningtamba has emphasised the need for unity among the indigenous people of Manipur to ensure they live with dignity and pride.

He made the call during the United Nations Day observance organised by World Human Rights Protection Organisation (WHRPO), Manipur at Manipur Press Club on Thursday, commemorating establishment of the United Nations Organisation.

Speaking as chief guest, Ningtamba expressed concern over the current state of governance in Manipur, stating that the situation is like there is no state government.

He stressed that such alarming state of affairs should not be taken lightly and called for immediate action to unite and strategize for the future of the indigenous people.

Ningtamba highlighted the importance of mutual respect, understanding, and maintaining cordial relationships among different communities.

He noted that while there are laws in place to uphold the dignity and rights of individuals, these laws are often violated by the wealthy and powerful, and Manipur is no exception to this trend.

He pointed to the ongoing crisis in the state, which began on May 3, 2023, following violence against Meetei civilians by Kuki groups, as an example of rights violations.

Ningtamba characterised this violence as a clear violation of international human rights laws and warned that it poses serious challenge to the dignity and rights of the Meetei community.

He further remarked that while some groups may have legitimate grievances and demands, such as the call for a separate administration, they should seek redress through proper channels, either with the Government of India or at international platforms.

Ningtamba emphasised that turning against the Meetei community Undermines the community's rights and dignity.

He reiterated the need for the indigenous people of Manipur to unite and discuss the way forward in order to protect their rights and ensure a future where they can live with pride.

WHRPO state president Moirangthem Sorojini, who presided oyer the event, outlined the organisation's efforts to bring attention to human rights violations in Manipur on global platforms.

She explained that the WHRPO was established under the aegis of the United Mothers' Organisation and has been working to expand its reach internationally.

So far, WHRPO has partnered with similar organisations in four countries and is continuing to build alliances to address the human rights challenges facing Manipur.

The event was attended by Anouba Senmitlon general secretary Nameirakpam Yaima, Yelhoumee Kanba Lup president Angom Loken, Federation of Civil Societies Organisation (FOCS) president Thoidingjam Manihar, Indigenous People of Manipur (IPOM) vice-president Khumanthem Chandramani, Life Vigil International president advocate Angomcha Araba, Manipur Women's Federation president Khundongbam Shiny Leima, Pro-Business Solutions Pvt Ltd director Yumnam Samananda, and Meitei Pangal Council Manipur president Haji Arafat Ali Tampak, as guests of honour.

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