The Meitei Naga Protection Committee (MNPC), Manipur, a new organisation aimed at bringing the Meitei and Naga communities together, was formed today.
The formation of the organisation was announced at a press conference held at the Manipur Press Club, where General Secretary Merajao Kabui introduced the office-bearers. T. Ramananda has been named president, while S.A. Achan will serve as Finance Secretary.
Merajao said the committee was formed with the objective of strengthening unity between the Meitei and Naga communities, which, he said, have coexisted in Manipur since time immemorial.
He alleged that external elements have been attempting to weaken both indigenous communities by creating divisions between them. He further alleged that attempts were being made to divide the Meitei and Naga communities while facilitating the entry of illegal immigrants into the state.
Merajao claimed that the number of illegal immigrants was increasing, posing a threat to the future of both the Meitei and Naga communities, which he said were gradually becoming minorities in their own land.
He also criticised the government’s handling of the grievances of internally displaced persons (IDPs), alleging that the government remained silent when national highways were blocked allegedly targeting specific communities. At the same time, he alleged that the government took various measures to address a blockade when it continued for only a week, which he linked to efforts to protect illegal immigrants.
Against this backdrop, Merajao said like-minded people had come together to form the MNPC with the stated objective of protecting the interests and future of the indigenous people of Manipur.
