Ukhrul: The headmen of 36 villages from Ukhrul and Kamjong districts have denounced the false allegations made against MP Alfred Kanngam Shangshakwoshi Arthur by Meitei Leepun and My Manipur.
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A joint statement signed by the headmen of 36 villages stated:
“We, the headmen of 36 villages, vehemently denounce the false allegations and misinterpretations of Hon’ble MP Alfred Kanngam S. Arthur’s recent maiden parliamentary speech by ‘Meitei Leepun’ and ‘My Manipur.’ These baseless accusations, claiming that MP Arthur ‘is openly advocating for the destructive agenda of illegal immigrant Kukis in the Indian Parliament and elsewhere,’ are not only unfounded but also an attempt to personalize with ill intentions. Moreover, it is undemocratic.
“MP Arthur has consistently demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the development and peace of the entire state of Manipur, which encompasses both hill and valley regions.
“The claims made by ‘Meitei Leepun’ that MP Arthur does not support the government’s efforts to protect indigenous people are blatant distortions of his actual stance. The call by ‘Meitei Leepun’ and ‘My Manipur’ to socially boycott MP Arthur from July 31, 2024, based on these unfounded accusations, is inflammatory and unjustified. Such statements not only misrepresent MP Arthur’s speech but also risk inciting unnecessary and unjustified harassment.
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“In his speech, MP Arthur emphasized that Manipur has the lowest per capita income and the highest inflation in the country. He highlighted the unprecedented floods and ongoing violence that have severely impacted the state. Accordingly, he demanded an equal budget allocation for the region, asserting that it is their right. As an opposition MP, he has suggested ways to bring peace to the 15-month-long conflict, including changing the Chief Minister of Manipur. Additionally, MP Arthur called for the inclusion of tourism development in the Northeast, stressing its potential to bring economic growth. How can the speech be interpreted to express love for one community while advocating hatred for another community? Also, can it be seen to negatively impact a particular community?
“We urge all concerned citizens to reject these false allegations made by ‘Meitei Leepun’ and ‘My Manipur.’ MP Alfred Kanngam S. Arthur represents the state of Manipur, and any attempts to twist and misinterpret his words only serve to hinder the peace and unity we strive to achieve. We call upon the people of Manipur to be more democratic rather than fascist. MP Alfred Kanngam S. Arthur is a sound parliamentarian from the state of Manipur, and his continuous efforts to bring about peace, development, and harmonious coexistence in our state are highly anticipated.”
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