Debate over demand on ST status for Meiteis HERICOUN, AMAL support

IMPHAL, May 16 : The Ethno-Heritage Council (HERICOUN) and the Assam Meitei Apunba Lup (AMAL) have endorsed the ongoing campaign for enlistment of Meetei/Meitei in ST category under the Constitution of India.

The 14th foundation day of the HERICOUN and the 7th Khangminasi Eramdam Quiz was held today at GM Hall here.

AMAL president Wangkhem Saratchandra, HERICOUN president Longjam Ratankumar and Aimol Tribe Union Manipur president RT Akhel attended the event as chief guest, president and guest of honour respectively.

Speaking at the gathering, Wangkhem Saratchandra lamented that there are not only differences of opinions but also open conflicts among different sections with regard to a particular issue pertaining to one whole community of the State.

It would be much more effective and fruitful if the two sides standing on the opposite sides of the ST status sit together and thrash out the differences rather than engage in mudslinging through media.

Meiteis/Meeteis can safeguard their identity, culture and traditions if they are enlisted in ST category, Saratchandra asserted.

He continued that Meiteis of Assam would find it difficult to get themselves enlisted in ST category if the Meiteis of Manipur are not given the same status.

It would be far more meaningful if all the indigenous people of Manipur sit together and deliberate on the challenges posed by outsiders and devise a common strategy to overcome these challenges, he asserted.

He further pointed out the burgeoning population of outsiders at Jiribam.

Longjam Ratankumar asked all the opponents of ST demand to explain in detail what are the things Meiteis stand to loose in case they are enlisted in ST category.

He also expressed keen desire for a dialogue on why Meiteis should shy away from demanding ST status.

Akhel Aimol lamented that many people have been creating more and more issues rather than concentrating their efforts and time on bringing peace and security in the State.

He also expressed keen desire for all the people to join Irom Sharmila’s campaign against Armed Forces Special Powers Act.

Later Tomthin Khudol was presented to noted Thang-Ta exponent Nodiachand.

~TSE