IT News
Imphal, Feb 21:
The Scheduled Tribe Demand Committee, Manipur (STDCM) has responded to the recent memorandum submitted by the All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM) opposing their demand for the inclusion of the indigenous Meitei/Meetei tribe of Manipur in the Scheduled Tribe (ST) list. STDCM labeled ANSAM’s stance as unfortunate and unwarranted.
The STDCM reiterated that their demand aligns with the Constitution of India and follows established procedures, modalities, and criteria set by the Indian government for considering such claims. They clarified that the inclusion of Meitei/Meetei tribe in the ST list doesn’t entail any reversal or downgrade of social status or historical significance; rather, it’s a matter for the authorities to decide.
In response to grievances raised by ANSAM and others, the STDCM urged them to seek redressal through the State Government instead of opposing a fellow indigenous tribe’s quest for Constitutional safeguards, as such opposition could lead to misunderstandings among indigenous communities.
STDCM emphasized that their demand aims to secure constitutional protections for the survival of the indigenous Meitei/Meetei tribe without infringing upon the interests of other communities already listed as ST. They stressed the need for a united effort to address external challenges.
In a heartfelt appeal, STDCM urged all fellow communities in Manipur, especially indigenous ones, not to oppose the Meitei/Meetei tribe’s demand for ST status, highlighting it as a crucial constitutional imperative for their survival in their ancestral land. They underscored that opposing it would unjustly deny their right to survival.
The STDCM affirmed its commitment to promoting unity among all indigenous communities in Manipur, fostering peaceful co-existence, and mutual progress.
