Meghen stresses need for unity
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, October 15 2026: Former UNLF chairman Ningthem-cha Sanayaima alias Meghen has stressed the need for all communities to work together for the survival and development of Manipur.

He made the statement today during an interaction programme organised by the South East Asia Human Rights Association in connection with the observance of the "77th Year of Manipur Since Annexation by India in 1949" .

Speaking at the programme held at Lamyanba Shanglen at Palace Compound, Meghen claimed that Manipur was annexed by India in 1949 .

He said that the occasion should serve as a day for introspection on the present condition of Manipur and the circumstances that prevailed before 1949 .

Meghen observed that the prevailing situation in the State had deepened divisions among communities.

Stressing that all communities must work together rather than pursue separate interests, he added that there is no alternative to collective efforts for their survival and development.

Meghen recalled that shortly after Manipur was annexed by India in 1949, it was downgraded to a Part C State in January 1950 and placed under the administration of a Chief Commi- ssioner appointed by the Govt of India.

He said the subsequent political developments undermined the interests of the people of Manipur.

Since the tenure of India's first Prime Minister, the Government of India had been pursuing a policy of not developing Manipur.

As a result, he said, the people's right to development had been undermined.

Meghen further stated that Manipur is currently facing multiple challenges, with the economy deteriorating and people struggling to make ends meet.

He observed that economic hardship has become increasingly evident in households across the State, while prospects for recovery remain uncertain.

Against this backdrop, he called for collective deliberations on how Manipur could emerge from its present predicament and rebuild itself.

Associate Professor of Political Science at Indira Gandhi National Tribal University (IGNTU), Dr Homen Thangjam; Associate Professor of Political Science at DMU, Dr Feroja Syed; and faculty member of the Department of Political Science at Nambol L Sanoi College, Dr Ningombam Shreema, participated the programme as resource persons.

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