STDCM questions rational of opposing ST demand
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, February 21 2024: The Scheduled Tribe Demand Committee of Manipur (STDCM) has categorically stated that any opposition to Meitei /Meetei seeking Constitutional safeguard in the form of Scheduled Tribe (ST) is unjust and it is the Government of India to decide whether such inclusion is justified or not.

STDCM, in a statement, also said that the All Naga Students' Association, Manipur (ANSAM) opposing the demand to enlist Meitei/Meetei in the ST list is unfortunate and uncalled for.

STDCM reiterated that its demand to grant ST status to Meitei/Meetei is in accordance with the Constitution of India and it is the Government of India to decide whether such inclusion is justified.

Saying that they have taken note of the memorandum submitted to the Gover- nor on February 17 by ANSAM against the ST demand for Meitei/Meetei, STDCM appealed to all fellow communities in Manipur especially the indigenous ones not to oppose their demand.

Opposing the demand implies denying the right to survival of Meitei/Meetei and it is unjust, STDCM added.

It is a Constitutional demand crucial for the survival of Meitei/Meetei in their ancestral land, STDCM continued, referring to the demand to add the ethnic group in the ST list.

Assuring that its demand doesn't intend to infringe upon the interests of other communities already included in the ST list, STDCM continued that what they want is Constitutional safeguard of Meitei/Meetei and secure the future of the ethnic group.

Meitei/Meetei's claim for ST status doesn't involve reversal or downgrading social status of the ethnic group, STDCM added.

If ANSAM or any other organisation or community has grievances, they should approach the State Government for redressal instead of opposing a fellow indigenous tribe's claim for Constitutional safeguard, STDCM said and forewarned that opposing the ST status demand by Meetei/Meitei demand may lead to unnecessary misunderstanding among the indigenous communities.

A united effort is needed to address the challenges being posed by external forces, it said and added that STDCM is committed to promoting unity among the indigenous communities.

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