Resolve encroachment : JCILPS
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 08 2017:
Taking strong exception to the reported encroachment by a group of non-indigenous people (Teli) into the premises of a local deity of Khurai Ahongpung, the Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System (JCILPS) has urged the State Government to work out an amicable settlement.
A statement issued by JCILPS convenor Arjun Tenheiba pledged support with regard to the initiative of the Apunba Khurai Ahongpung Kanba Sub-Committee towards protecting the premises of the local deity.
The particular shrine and its premises measuring 0.10 acre was enlisted under the Historical Monument Act as per an order issued by the State Government on September 17, 2000 .
However, during the past 10 years, Telis encroached into the premises and constructed a number of temples, community hall and ashram.
No one could raise any objection to this encroachment because of political patronage enjoyed by the non-indigenous people and disunity among the indigenous people of the locality.
Now the premises of the local deity has shrunk to just 14 feet in length and 8 feet in breadth.
On the other hand, a much larger portion of the said premises measuring around 50 feet into 100 feet was found registered in the name of one Bheigyapati Prasad.
Taking strong exception to the registration of a public place in the name of a non-local individual through alleged fraudulent means, JCILPS asserted that there is growing need to protect indigenous people, their traditional practices and value systems.
It further urged the Government to enact a Bill/law which can protect indigenous people and their properties.