'Enforce ground rules'
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, September 15 2023:
Stating that elements of external aggression and violation of Suspension of Operation (SoO) ground rules by Kuki militants are glaring factors in the ongoing unrest, CPI State Control Commission Chairman L Iboyaima has asserted that the Central Government should find a solution to the conflict at the earliest.
L Iboyaima made the remark during the observation of the 97th birth anniversary of CPI leader Thokchom Bira jointly organised by the Irawat Celebration Committee Manipur and CPI Keishamthong Local Council at Keishampat Keisham Leikai Community Hall today.
Speaking on the occasion, L Iboyaima maintained that in order to bring peace to Manipur it is necessary to do away with 'ethnicity-based nationalism' .
At this juncture, he recalled that Hijam Irabot had spearheaded a movement for 'Manipur nationalism' which encompassed all people of Manipur, regardless of their ethnicity.
This allowed him to safeguard the integrity of Manipur in the face of various obstacles, L Iboyaima said.
Stating that the present generation needs to follow in the footsteps of Hijam Irabot and uphold the territorial integrity of Manipur, he further stressed on the elements of external aggression and violation of SoO ground rules by Kuki militants, thus bringing into focus the need for the Central Government to resolve this conflict.
He also lauded Thokchom Bira as a true communist leader who led the democratic movement in Manipur and believed in the ideals of humanism and justice.
The ceremony was graced by Thokchom Bhanu, spouse of Thokchom Bira as well as various CPI leaders.
The gathering also proceeded to offer a floral tribute on the portrait of the deceased.