NSF meets Manipur HM

Condemns eviction of Naga River Lane residents

DIMAPUR, JUNE 5 (MExN): The Naga Students’ Federation on June 4 met the Manipur Home Minister, Gaikhangam to apprise him on issues related to the Nagas in Manipur. This was informed in a press note issued by NSF President, Tongpang Ozukum and General Secretary, Easter Rhakho. 

The NSF expressed concern over the proposed construction of a star hotel at Naga River Lane and the subsequent forceful eviction being carried out by the Manipur government in defiance of a court stay order. It condemned the action and denounced the proposed construction at the cost of the Nagas, particularly the residents of the colony who possess all legitimate documents issued by the GoM. 

It stated that “This incident clearly demonstrates the sinister intention and continued attempt on part of the communal government of Manipur to torture and discriminate the Nagas in Manipur.” It expressed agony to “see our people who are forced to live as refugees just outside the place where their house once stood.” It called for the court to give an unbiased verdict to retrieve back the land to the rightful owners.

The NSF, as a sign of solidarity visited the Silent Tangkhul Naga village, which was attacked by a large number of highly armed people from the neighboring Meitei Saijang village on May 3. In this regard, the NSF entourage team pressed upon the GoM to deploy adequate security for safety of the villagers as well as to maintain status quo, while respecting boundary demarcation between the villages. 

It stated that it was not against any developmental activities in the Naga Hill districts of Manipur nor in the Meitei dominated Imphal valley. However, it stated that the GoM must keep in mind that such developmental activities should be carried out with due consultation and consent of the indigenous people in the area. 

The NSF, while meeting the Home Minister made a special mention of the projected Chakpi Multipurpose Dam in Chandel and the proposed Oil exploration in Kambiron village under Tamenglong district. It reiterated that there should be a clear Memorandum of Understanding or an agreement; acceptable, honorable and beneficial to the people.  

It issued a reminder about the memorandum submitted on April 22 to the Government of Manipur in regard to the kidnapping of Alice Kamei by the Revolutionary People's Front. It sought to know the steps initiated by the GoM for the safe release of the juvenile and urged upon the GoM to seriously take up the matter.

The NSF questioned the sincerity of the GoM in failing to safeguard and protect the indigenous inhabitants within its jurisdiction. The NSF stated that it was still optimistic that the Manipur government would take serious note of the relevant issues concerning the Nagas in Manipur.