The Corresponding Committee of CSOs, Manipur, a joint platform of 14 organisations spearheading the demand for updating the National Register of Citizens (NRC) based on the 1951 records before conducting the Census, delimitation and demographic study in the state, has clarified that it has imposed no restrictions on artists or the field of art and culture.
In a press release signed by representatives of the constituent organisations, including Santa Singh Nahakpam, Convenor, 14 CSOs, Kangleipak; Mutum Churamani Meitei, Secretary (Organisation), Meitei Meeti Tribe Union (MMTU); Dr K. Heera Kabui, President, Kabui Union; S.M. Jalal Singamayum, President, All Manipur Muslim Organisations Co-ordinating Committee (AMMOCOC); Huidrom Ranjit Meitei, Lanjang Hanjaba, Meitei Leepun; Serto Ahao Kom, President, Kom Union Manipur; Dr Puni Losii, President, Mao Union; Chinhaochung Makan, President, Indigenous Peoples Forum Manipur; Lansingam Kamei, President, Manipur Naga Youth Organisation; Poudinlung Kamei, General Secretary, Manipur Naga Youth Organisation; and S. Kulla, Convenor, MI IDP Manipur, the committee said art and culture had played a significant role in taking Manipur’s name beyond the country’s borders and onto the international stage.
Acknowledging the contribution of artists to society, the committee said professional artists had consistently used various art forms to raise public awareness on contemporary issues, promote unity and brotherhood among communities, and spread messages of peace and love, particularly in a conflict-affected state like Manipur. It also described the traditional teacher-disciple relationship in the field of art as an important foundation for social progress.
Citing the history of democratic protests by artists in Manipur, the committee recalled how noted theatre personality Ratan Thiyam had surrendered awards and returned honours in protest over issues concerning ceasefire and the territorial integrity of Manipur. It also cited filmmaker Aribam Syam Sharma’s decision to return his award in protest against the Citizenship Amendment Bill, describing such actions as significant contributions that remain part of the state’s history.
The committee further referred to activist Jayenta, popularly known as ‘Tapta’, who has been using songs to spearhead a movement for NRC implementation and protection of indigenous land, describing his efforts as an expression of patriotism.
Clarifying speculation over alleged restrictions on artists, the committee maintained that artists could not be brought under its fold or compelled to follow a particular direction through coercion. It said it had no belief that such an approach would succeed.
The committee also pointed out that it had itself organised a musical campaign as part of its ongoing movement under the demand ‘No Census without updating NRC in the state’, with the objective of creating greater public awareness about the NRC issue and mobilising public support.
Reiterating its position, the committee said it respected the contributions of artists and the wider art and culture fraternity in raising social issues and would not impose any form of restriction on them.
