IT News
Imphal, Feb 23:
Thawai Mirel has expressed strong concerns over what it describes as an attempt by the Indian government to eradicate the indigenous people of Manipur. The organization fears that under the prevailing circumstances, the survival of the Manipuri people is at stake. Thawai Mirel Women’s Wing Convenor, Paonam Sanahanbi, stated that unless the indigenous communities unite, they will not be able to counter the policies that threaten their existence.
Asserting its stance, Thawai Mirel launched a movement under the banner “Ema Leibakkidamak Eikhoi Punna Hingminnakhisi” (We Stand for Our Motherland) and conducted awareness campaigns in areas categorized as red zones. The organization, along with local Meira Paibis (women torchbearers), held a mass gathering at a residence in Thamnapokpi Mayai Leikai under Lamlai Assembly Constituency in Imphal East, where they deliberated on the threats faced by indigenous communities.
During the event, Thawai Mirel condemned the increasing encroachment by external forces into red zone areas, stressing that indigenous people must come together to protect their land. The organization stated that if the people fail to act now, their very identity and existence could be at risk. The members pledged to reclaim and restore lands that have been occupied, stating that they would not allow the indigenous communities to be displaced.
Further, the organization accused the Indian government of deliberately instigating conflicts between Meiteis and Kukis to divert attention from the real issue—the systematic control over Manipur’s land and resources. Thawai Mirel clarified that the current situation is not an ethnic conflict but a strategic move by the government to take over the state’s natural wealth. The organization called upon the people to reject any policies or programs that could lead to their displacement and urged a unified movement to counter such agendas.
Highlighting the struggles faced by local communities, Thawai Mirel emphasized that the indigenous people must stand together to protect their homeland. The gathering also paid tribute to the fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives for Manipur’s sovereignty and observed a two-minute silence in their memory. The meeting concluded with renewed determination to safeguard the land from alleged threats posed by Kuki narco-terrorists and other external forces.
The organization vowed to continue its movement and urged all indigenous groups, including those hesitant to act, to rise against policies that undermine their existence. They further resolved to strengthen their resistance against government actions that threaten Manipur’s territorial integrity.
