Kabui CSOs object cultural festival amidst unrest
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, November 26 2024: Kabui civil society organisations (CSOs) have voiced objections to the upcoming "Manipur Indigenous People's Cultural Exchange Festival 2024", stating that it is inappropriate to hold any celebrations in the midst of the unrest situation in the state.

In a joint release, Kabui-Union Manipur, Kabui Women's Organisations, Kabui Students' Organisation and Kabui Customary Council Manipur expressed dismay over the announcement of the Cultural Exchange Festival, planned by Indigenous People's Forum Manipur, from November 29 at Chadong, Kamjong district amidst conflicts between indigenous peoples of Manipur and the so-called Chin-Kuki-Zo/Kuki narco-terrorist group.

If CSO really love the indigenous peoples or work for the welfare of the people, they should come forward to succour the brothers, sisters and the children who are displaced and emotionally sick because of the turmoil and unrest, it stressed.

"Will the cultural exchange (to be held on the theme, "Manipur united by diversity") bring back the lives lost or make the displaced people return to their respective homes?", the bodies questioned, while recalling the recent merciless killing of an innocent 8 months old child along with five other females by Kuki murderers.

The release further posed if anyone would have the heart to celebrate cheerful dances amidst grievances of the neighbour.

While observing that the cultural festival may indicate a greater misunderstanding among indigenes as one of the indigenous communities, the Meetei, is in deep sorrow, the bodies called for the other indigenous communities to share the grievances and sorrows.

Meanwhile, the release informed that Kabui Customary Council Manipur plans to hold a prayer with customary rituals on November 17 for the lives lost and for peace and integrity of indigenous peoples of the state at Sawombung Kabui Khunjao.

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