City forum criticises Ibobi for new districts

SHILLONG: The Tangkhul Elder’s Forum in the city has expressed anguish over the current political impasse in Manipur and condemned the attacks on churches and the arson at Khurai Lamlong in Imphal.
The forum held a consultation on January 2 at Iarisa Hostel in Nongrim Hills. Further, the forum appealed to the state government to rescind the premeditated action to bifurcate the hill districts, knowing well the imposition could have adverse repercussions.
“Chief Minister of Manipur Okram Ibobi has taken this unprecedented step against the will of the people to perpetually subjugate the indigenous hill people,” the forum said.
The forum appealed to the Manipur government to immediately revoke its impugned notification to arbitrarily create new districts affecting the hill areas, especially the land of the Nagas and control law and order so that the interest of the stakeholders of the hill people is safeguarded.
It also appealed for the release of arrested UNC President Gaidon Kamei and its Publicity and Information Secretary Stephen Sankheand begin tripartite talks including with the Central government without further delay.
The forum is in total defiance of the well-established norms of consultation and dialogue with the stakeholders.