IT News
Imphal, Oct 16:
The Manipur International Youth Centre (MIYC) has expressed firm opposition to any plans by the Indian government to divide Manipur along ethnic lines. The organization emphasized that such actions would violate both Indian constitutional provisions and international legal frameworks, calling for the inviolability of Manipur’s territorial integrity.
The MIYC underscored that the boundaries of Manipur have been historically well-defined and respected. Drawing on historical records, including Henry Yule’s map from 1500 AD and the Surveyor General of India’s map from 1984, the group affirmed that the state’s territorial borders have been in place for over half a millennium. The organization also referenced the international legal principle of Uti Possidetis Juris, which mandates that the boundaries of newly independent states must be preserved as they existed at the time of independence. This principle, universally upheld by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in various international disputes, safeguards the territorial integrity of states that emerged from colonial rule. According to the MIYC, this principle applies to Manipur, which was an independent entity before its controversial annexation by India in 1949.
The MIYC expressed grave concerns over the Indian government’s potential use of Article 3 of the Constitution to alter Manipur’s boundaries. Article 3 allows the Indian Parliament to modify state boundaries but requires the consultation of the concerned state legislature. However, the MIYC argued that this provision does not apply to Manipur, given its unique historical context. They cited the state’s annexation under coercive circumstances in 1949, claiming that such moves would disregard the legal and historical distinctions that set Manipur apart from other Indian states.
Furthermore, the organization warned of the serious consequences that could arise from dividing the state along ethnic lines. They noted that attempts to redraw boundaries based on ethnic affiliations often lead to prolonged conflict and unrest, citing examples from regions such as the Balkans and Rwanda. According to the MIYC, any such move in Manipur would fuel social tensions between its multi-ethnic communities and could lead to widespread violence and instability in the region.
In light of these concerns, the MIYC called on the Government of India to publicly clarify its position on Manipur’s boundaries. They urged the government to issue a formal statement to reassure the public and to engage in peaceful dialogue with all stakeholders, including civil society organizations, to address the state’s issues without compromising its territorial integrity. Additionally, the MIYC appealed to the international community, including legal bodies and human rights organizations, to monitor the situation closely and to stand in solidarity with the people of Manipur in their efforts to protect their land.
The MIYC concluded by reaffirming that Manipur’s territorial integrity is protected under international law and should not be threatened by divisive political actions. They stressed the importance of respecting the state’s historical and legal rights, as well as the need for peaceful, transparent dialogue to resolve any disputes.