IT News
Imphal, June 10:
Amidst the circulation of a viral memorandum concerning the status of the Meitei tribe in Manipur, the Meetei/Meitei Tribe Union (MMTU) has issued a press release to clarify its stance. The memorandum, submitted during Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s visit to Manipur from May 29 to 31, 2023, has garnered significant attention on social media platforms.
In the statement released by Salam Gourakishwor Singh, President of MMTU, it was revealed that only the first page of the seven-page memorandum has been shared widely on social media. The viral content highlights excerpts from the British Linguistic Survey of India Volume III, wherein the Meitei community is recognized as a tribe within the Kuki-thin group of the Tibeto-Burman family. Additionally, the survey provides a detailed analysis of languages spoken by various Kuki-chin tribes, including the Meitei.
MMTU emphasized the significance of this linguistic survey in their argument for the Meiteis’ inclusion in the scheduled tribe list. They cited numerous books and sources to support their claim. Furthermore, MMTU reiterated their stance that both Kukis and Meiteis belong to different tribal groups, which has been also heighted in the memorandum.
The memorandum also advocates for the preservation of the unique cultural identities of communities. MMTU’s press release aims to provide clarity and context amidst the widespread circulation of the viral content, reaffirming their commitment to advocating for Meitei rights and recognition in Manipur.
