UKHRUL: The World Meetei Council (WMC) has expressed its concerned over the direction of the Finance Ministry regarding a separate budget for the hill areas of Manipur and urged the Prime Minister to disallow and discourage any form of separatist narrative or movement that threatens the territorial integrity and unity of Manipur.
In a representation submitted to the Prime Minister, the WMC stated that the Finance Ministry’ Office Memorandum regarding a separate budgetary arrangement for the hill areas of Manipur in the midst of humanitarian and administrative crisis in the state raises deep concerns among the people.
“It appears, unfortunately, as though Manipur is being treated as a testing ground for experimental policies – reducing its people to mere subjects in a larger political laboratory,” the WMC stated.
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Stating that Manipur, despite being under the direct control of the Union Government, the suffering of the people has only intensified.
“The present policy approach of the Government of India towards Manipur has resulted in immense and prolonged suffering for the people of the state. For over two and a half years, unresolved issues have led to the displacement of more than 60,000 people, many of whom continue to languish in relief camps. This has unfortunately become the defining feature of the current policy framework concerning Manipur,” the WMC stated.
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“The prolonged inaction and lack of urgency from the government have allowed the situation to deteriorate further. It is well understood that when a crisis is allowed to persist, it inevitably grows in complexity and magnitude,” the WMC added.
Calling for the restoration of stability, peace and justice, the WMC urged the Prime Minister to ensure full accountability of the Indian Army in maintaining strict neutrality and fairness while dealing with all communities and stakeholders during the ongoing crisis.
It also appealed to the PM to direct the immediate restoration and protection of all National Highways in Manipur, ensuring they remain free from blockades or disturbances. “The Army and paramilitary forces are fully capable of securing these lifelines,” it stated.
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The WMC further urged the Prime Minister to disallow and discourage any form of separatist narrative or movement, from any group or faction, that threatens the territorial integrity and unity of Manipur and the nation.
“These immediate steps will serve as an essential beginning toward restoring confidence, harmony and stability in the region,” the World Meitei Council added.