UKHRUL, Aug 6: Social activists Ashang Kasar and Dr. Paul Chawang of Youth Rise for Change on Friday visited Liangmai Naga Taphou village, described as a vulnerable and sensitive area, where they held an extensive interaction with youth leaders, women leaders and village authorities amid the prevailing security situation.
The Naga village has been maintaining round-the-clock checkpoints as a precautionary measure in view of the ongoing conflict. During the meeting, the activists encouraged community leaders to remain united, vigilant and committed to safeguarding the rights, land and future of the indigenous people.
Also read UKNA Hmar ‘Army Chief’ Arrested in Ccpur; AK-47, IEDs Recovered
Addressing the gathering, Ashang Kasar urged the leaders not to lose hope despite the present circumstances, but to continue pursuing justice through peaceful, democratic and constitutional means.
“You are standing today for the future generations. If we fail to stand for justice and protect our rights and land today, our future generations may face serious consequences and could lose their rightful place in their own land,” he said.
Kasar said the indigenous communities of Manipur have the right to protect their land, identity and legitimate interests. He appealed to the Naga community to remain united while continuing its efforts through lawful and democratic processes.
Expressing concern over the continued presence of Kuki refugees in various areas and the role of security forces, Kasar said the issues should be resolved through a fair, transparent and effective political and administrative process, taking into account the rights and security of all indigenous communities.
He cautioned against any further escalation of violence and called on all communities to work towards a peaceful and just resolution of the conflict. He said good governance, adherence to the rule of law, proper identification of residents and effective implementation of existing laws were essential to addressing concerns relating to land, migration, displacement and demographic changes.
Kasar further urged Naga community leaders to remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice and the protection of future generations through peaceful and lawful means.
Also read 9-Year-Old Girl Critical After Landslide Hits Rented House in Ukhrul
Referring to the state government, he said the community should assess its political engagement based on the government’s ability to ensure justice, impartial governance and protection of the legitimate interests of affected indigenous communities.
He concluded by calling upon youth, women, village authorities and community leaders to stand together, remain vigilant and collectively work towards peace, justice, protection of ancestral land and the welfare of future generations.
