Meitei Phambei moots revision of Merger Agreement
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, July 19 2023:
In the Wake of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the state with lukewarm response from the Centre to control the situation, Meitei Phambei said that there is a strong need to revisit and re-evaluate Manipur's merger agreement with the Union of India.
Addressing a press conference at Tronglaobi in Bishnupur district on Wednesday, Meitei Phambei 'Thouburel' Ningthouja Lancha stated that the ongoing crisis and conflict in the state stem not only from the failure of law and order but also from the deliberate implementation of the divide and rule policy by the Government of India in Manipur for many years.
Ningthouja Lancha emphasised the need to strengthen the Meetei society by unifying at the local level in response to the present situation and various challenges faced by the state.
He pointed out that the current crisis has caused significant hardships, loss of lives, and destruction of property.
People have been left vulnerable and helpless due to the Indian state's failure to protect citizens' rights responsibly.
Accusing the British colonial administration and Government of India of contributing to the continuous degradation of Manipur's socio-economic, ecological, and political systems, Ningthouja Lancha criticised the Government of India for overlooking Manipur's political issues and dismissing them as mere law and order problems.
In light of these concerns, Meitei Pham bei has made preparations to revisit the merger agreement signed with the Union of India.
The challenges faced by Manipur not only originate within the state but also involve geopolitical considerations due to its proximity to Myanmar and China.
Thus, it is crucial to strengthen the Meetei society and reaffirm its relationship with other kindred communities in Manipur, while also engaging with other political entities.
Ningthouja Lancha stressed the urgency to revitalise community and politics to safeguard the society and its future.
To achieve this, he proposed reviving Phambei in Leikai, Khul, Pana and Kangla levels with Leikai Phambei the lowest and Kangla Phambei at the highest level of hierarchy.
These institutions will provide political and socio-economic spaces for discussions and decision-making, he said.