~ Hengul Sitlhou
The present deplorable situation in which we have been dragged into, for the last couple of weeks requires an in-depth analysis of the problem with careful retrospection of all the pros and cons. The on-going conflict of interest between the two major communities has hold the entire state hostage rendering the common people in the verge of doom, starvation and ultimate peril. The origin of the present imbroglio may be traced to the
demand for amendment of the enabling Act of the Autonomous District Council. The agitation is spearheaded by ANSAM and UNC alleging that the Act fails to deliver the goods and hence needs certain amendments.
As the Economic Blockade is being launched to pressure the Govt of Manipur another issue emerges into the limelight with a more aggressive ramification. That is Mr. Thuingaleng Muivah proposed visit to his birth place with prior approval from Delhi. Both these major issues are the bone of contention and becoming increasingly sensitive day by day which subsequently will decide the fate of the State; if not settled amicably on time. In the light of the facts cited above I would like to pose the following points for the public to ponder upon.

1. The present Blockade has its genesis in the Objection to District Council Election by ANSAM and UNC
claiming that the Act is not satisfactory and demand for deferment of the Poll until the Act is rectify/amended by Manipur Legislative Assembly.

However, Shri O.Ibobi government did not pay heed and rather turned a blind eye to the issue and go ahead with its decision. ANSAM and UNC also do not budge either from their stand and thereby the agitation intensified resulting in the present stalemate.

2. In the midst of all these conflict one new issue came up aggravating the already volatile situation. That is, the NSCN-IM Leader Th. Muivah’s proposed visit to his birth place i.e. Somdal Village in Ukhrul District. It is later learnt that the same had been approved by the Govt. of India. Despite the hues and cries raised in the valley, the visit is welcome in all the Naga Districts with all Naga Civil societies preparing to accord him a Hero’s welcome.

3. The visit was out rightly opposed and objected by the State Govt. Chief Minister Mr.O.Ibobi, motivated and
encouraged by the unflinching support that he got from UCM, AMUCO and other organizations from the valley pledges to foil Th. Muivah entry to Manipur by any means. The outcome is clearly seen at Mao gate which at this present juncture looks like a fortified garrison featured by mammoth presence of State Security Forces creating a war-like situation.

4. Fear psychosis is looming large and everyone is counting each and every minutes gripping with fear and
anxiety as to what the next course of action would be. The immediate effect been presently felt in the Capital City of Imphal and its surroundings, is the gradual dwindling of emotional integrity.

5. Having been frustrated by the prolonged problem of scarcity, the Meiteis began to turn their grievances towards the hill tribals and resort to launching of counter economic blockade against their hills counterparts. Food items from Imphal Valley are being prevented to reach the Hill District with active and vigilant check points at Kakching , Lamlong and Khombong etc.

6. Myriads of rumours are spreading like wild-fires aggravating the already grave situations. In view of the present scenario and developments, I would like to draw the attention of the public as to

1. Why UNC and ANSAM should continue with its Blockade when they could not stop nominations to the poll. Opposition with simultaneous participation is quite ironic and totally meaningless! The UNC & ANSAM are doing the right thing for all the Tribals living in Manipur but unfortunately, I am afraid ñ in the wrong way. Holding the entire populace into ransom for days together, won’t it be more meaningful if they switch to some other form of agitation other than economic blockade!

2. Why are Meiteis turning their grudge towards the Hill Tribals over this particular issue! As responsible citizens of Manipur and really serious about protecting the boundary and integrity of Manipur- are they not duty-bound and obliged to support the genuine demand of their Tribal counterparts ? It may be pointed out that the agitation for ADC Act. Amendment cannot be tainted with communal flavor. If we all profess to be loyal citizens of our State we should all strive for balance development and prosperity -of all the Districts and Communities and most importantly protect the rights of each and every individual and communities in the
State.

3. The Valley Districts have got and enjoy their own Eight Schedule (Language), Eleventh Schedule and Twelve Schedule Provision of the Constitution. (Panchayati Raj & Municipality respectively). It may be emphasized here time and again, that the Tribals have extended their support and cooperation when the demands for the aforementioned Constitutional Provisions were raised by the Meiteis in the Valley Districts. It will be very much wise and encouraging upon the Meiteis to support the Tribals’ Demand for Sixth Schedule Provision of the Constitution at this critical juncture. The Sixth Schedule Provision if implemented - will not
only ensure socio-economic development in the neglected and backward Hill Districts but will also protect and safeguard the rights and privileges of the Tribals, as provided by the Indian Constitution. As such, it will indeed be a milestone in our endeavor towards emotional integrity in particular and Territorial Integrity in general.

4. The on-going Blockade is an anathema to all the communities and it may not be launched to victimize one
particular community. The whole population irrespective of caste and creed are victim and had suffered a lot together in the bargain. It may not be ethical and morally right for our Meitei brethren to accuse the entire tribal peoples as the culprit. Threats and counter-threats of violence and intimidation will not solve the problem of integrity, it will rather do more harm than good. Integrity should come from the bottom of our hearts. It is high time that all right thinking citizens should come up together with constructive suggestion to end the present crisis. Feeling of love, fraternity, solidarity and brotherhood should be spread in every nook and corner of the State. Territorial Integrity is bound to disintegrate when there is no cemented bond of emotional integrity. Emotional integrity and as a matter of fact, physical integrity, will only be achieved - maintained only when fundamental rights of each and every individual/ community is ensured and protected and every community living in Manipur enjoy their rightful shares and privileges in matters of socio-economic development, representations, and what not. When our emotional bond of Integrity is intact no force on earth ñ be it Muivah or any other forces will be strong enough break us or tear us apart!


LONG LIVE MANIPUR!!!