Nando Luwang calls for leaders like Hijam Irabot to protect state
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, September 21 2024: Protection and Preservation Committee Manipur (PPCM) convenor Ph Nando Luwang has stressed the need for leaders with the vision and courage like that of Lamyanba Hijam Irabot to safeguard the state from the ongoing threats to its territorial integrity.

Speaking at an event commemorating the day Hijam Irabot went underground to protect Manipur, Nando Luwang emphasised the need for indigenous leaders to uphold their responsibilities, particularly as certain groups and individuals, including the 10 Kuki MLAs, are advocating for disintegration of the state by raising demand for a separate administration.

The event, held under the theme "Vision of Lamyanba Irabot and the Present-Day Manipuri Society," was jointly organised by PPCM and Lamyanba Irabot Ningshing Thouram Observation Committee (LINTOC) at Kwakeithel Akham Leikai community hall, here, on Saturday.

The occasion included offering floral tributes to Hijam Irabot, who is revered for his unyielding dedication to Manipur's unity.

Nando Luwang paid tribute to Irabot's sacrifices, recalling how he went underground to resist the dissolution of Manipur and the attempt to create a Purvanchal state.

Irabot's decision to resign from his position as an MLA and leave behind his association with the royal family for the greater good of the state was a testament to his unwavering commitment.

He lamented that today's leaders, especially MLAs and ministers, do not display the same values of courage and sacrifice, which are much needed in the current socio-political climate.

He drew attention to the ongoing efforts by Kuki militants, which he alleged are being supported by the Government of India, to disintegrate the state by advocating for a separate administration.

In this context, Nando questioned the role of indigenous MLAs, particularly in contrast to the 10 Kuki MLAs who have been vocal in their demands for a separate administration carved out of Manipur.

He urged the MLAs and ministers to take a firm stand for protecting the state's integrity, just as Irabot did when he fought to prevent the formation of Purvanchal.

Nando highlighted the proactive role of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), local clubs, Meira Paibi Lups, and village volunteers in protecting the state's unity.

However, he expressed concern that the contribution of MLAs in these efforts has been lacking.

"It is not that people are asking the MLAs and ministers to go underground like Irabot.

But they should uphold their responsibility and fight against these divisive forces with distinction," he said.

Nando stressed that the MLAs and ministers should raise their voices loud and clear to the Government of India to preserve the state's unity and territorial integrity.

He urged them to recognise and take inspiration from Irabot's contribution to thwarting the Purvanchal statehood movement, which threatened to dissolve Manipur.

The event was attended by prominent figures, including LINTOC convenor K Thoiba Meetei, co-convenors Kh Gopen Luwang, L Shyam Khuman, Y Tiken, and PPCM advisors Lourembam Nganbi, Y Leirik Leima, S Memcha, and L Premila, all of whom joined in paying homage to the legacy of Hijam Irabot.

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