President of the United Peoples’ Front, N. Rupachandra, on Saturday stated that the present generation has failed to draw lessons from historical events, resulting in repeated patterns of one community attempting to suppress another, a process that had led to the downfall of nations in the past.
He was speaking at a programme held at the Manipur Press Club under the theme “Eikhoi Amuk Hanna Khuntaklaroisi,” organised as part of the month-long observance of the one hundred and ninety-second National Reconsolidation Month.
The event was attended by Professor Naorem Joykumar, Vice-Chancellor of Khongnangthaba University, Assistant Professor Dr. Malem Ningthouja of the Department of History, Dhanamanjuri University, and Associate Professor Dr. Syed Ahmed of the same department, who were present as dignitaries on the dais.
Rupachandra said people must learn from history and make sincere efforts to correct past mistakes by avoiding their repetition. While history cannot be changed, he said a better and more prosperous society can be built by learning from it and nurturing its positive lessons. He expressed concern that despite widespread awareness that unity among the various communities of the region is the only path forward, people continue to remain divided.
He further said that disunity within the state has made it easier for external forces to weaken social cohesion and has also hindered collective efforts to address issues such as the influx of illegal immigrants. Unity, he added, remains the only effective means to protect the integrity of Manipur.
Calling upon the indigenous people of the state to unite and stand together against intrusion, Rupachandra urged the public not to allow Manipur to experience periods of devastation similar to those witnessed in the past. He said such outcomes can be avoided only if the people remain firm and united in protecting the state.
The UPF leader also said that indigenous communities must come together to decide their own future. Under its campaign for the protection and promotion of Manipuri national identity, he said the United Peoples’ Front is organising seminars, workshops and discussion programmes across the state to spread awareness, particularly among the youth.