Clarify if unable to end conflict: Saratchandra to Govt
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, December 26 2023:
If the state government is unable to put an end to the conflict which has been raging in the state for eight months, it should sincerely make it clear to the public.
It is in the blood of the Meeteis not to tolerate any disrespect from anyone, and the courage to defend oneself from everything, said Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) general secretary Pangeijam Saratchandra.
In a press meet held at his Heingang residence on Tuesday, Saratchandra remarked that it is extremely demeaning to have the central and state governments holding the perception that the people of Manipur can be easily brought by announcing compensation.
Both governments should instead implement security measures to allow free movement of Meetei people along the lifelines of Manipur so that they can earn a livelihood.
If the government is unable to do so, it should make it clear to the people, he asserted.
The MPCC general secretary continued that the conflict has severely impacted the livelihood and economy of the state and its people, particularly the Meetei.
Thousands from the community who were engaged in border or intra-state trade can no longer safely travel to Moreh or Kanglatongbi and their businesses have come to a halt.
Students -and medical patients with poor financial backgrounds now have to dip into their saving to purchase a flight ticket.
The people are currently surviving due to the goods brought in by members from other communities, Meetei Pangals and non-Manipuris, he added.
Saratchandra continued that Meetei people are living precariously and no longer could move freely in the land of their forefathers.
As such, the question is how long the Meetei will be living in such a situation, he posed.
Remarking that the CM's statement in an event in Assam on December 17 of not knowing when the conflict in Manipur will come to an end is extremely disheartening; the general secretary further expressed his dismay on the MST buses not being able to reach their destination in Churachandpur despite strict security measures.
He questioned whether the state and central security forces in Manipur are truly powerless or weak in this regard.