Imphal, May 10: Convenor of the Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System (JCILPS) Khomdram Ratan today warned the government of serious consequences, if the decision of the All Political Parties delegation to endorse the central government leadership regarding the demand for ILPS turned out to be a trick to fool the people. He said this while delivering speech on the 1st foundation day of Nongchup Imphal Meira Paibi Apunba Lup (NIMPAL) at GM Hall today.
“We welcome the decision of the all Political party and appreciate their resolution to meet President, Prime Minister and Home Minister to get Presidential assent of the 3 Bills passed by the state Assembly”, Ratan said and added that if the decision turns out to be another trick to play with the sentiments of the people then they might face the worst form of agitation. He further added that state government should not wait for the peoples’ movement in getting assent of the Bills passed by the state legislative Assembly as it is known that the 3 Bills are the only means left to protect the indigenous people of the state.
L. Gogendra, asst. Professor of Economics Department of Manipur College, who graced the occasion as dignitaries highlighted the wrong perception of demanding Scheduled tribe status for Meitei Meetei community as a means to protect the identity. He said that putting up a demand for a community should be well debated and discussed. However, the demand for ST status showed immature decision of some people driven by sentiment.
“It is wrong to play with the sentiment of the people, the demand is shown justified by implanting a sense of fear among the people, which is not right”, said Gojendro. Babloo Loitongbam Executive Director of HRA who also attended the foundation day also spoke on the issue of Sharmila and AFSPA.
Retd. District and Session Judge Th. Surbala Devi, President of NIMPAL, L.Gyanseshwori Singh, president of AMKIL, Ph. Ongbi Sakhi Devi, General Secretary of Nupi Samaj Th Ramani, President of Tami-Chingmi S.Momon Devi graced the function as chief guest, president and guest of honour respectively.