SHILLONG, May 8: Voicing concern over the Manipur violence, former MLA PT Sawkmie on Monday said that the North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA), which comprises all the Chief Ministers of the Northeastern states, should reach out to the Manipur government and offer help during these difficult times.
The former MLA further questioned why the North East MP Forum is yet to react on the ethnic violence in Manipur.
“We expect the MPs from the region to voice their concern on the things which are taking place in Manipur,” Sawkmie said.
Stating that the Centre has imposed Article 355 in Manipur when the state government is still there, he questioned if the Centre plans to impose President’s Rule too in Manipur.
On the other hand, he lauded the Conrad K Sangma-led MDA Government for taking the initiative to evacuate students from Manipur.
APPEAL
Two groups — Meghalaya United Christian Forum (MUCF) and Shillong Manipuri Students’ Union (SMSU) — have aired concern over the turmoil in Manipur which had led to communal violence and an overall breakdown of law and order, while at the same time appealing for peace in the Northeastern state.
The SMSU has urged Kuki and Metei communities in Shillong and other parts of the country not to spread fake information on social media platforms as it could lead to more unrest and violence.
Calling the clash between Kuki and Metei communities unfortunate, the union conveyed its condolences to all the families who lost their kin in the violence.
“The state and central government must act promptly to prevent further damage and loss of life, and must start an active method of rehabilitation and relief to the affected families and in and around Manipur including who have been taking shelters outside the state due to the ongoing communal riots, at the earliest and provide firm mechanism so as to avoid such confusion and unfortunate riots in the future between communities in Manipur,” the SMSU said.
Meanwhile, the MUCF expressed solidarity with the affected people of strife-torn Manipur.
It has asked the Manipur government to take swift action so as to bring the situation under control.
The forum has urged all members of different ethnic groups as well as the civil societies and religious groups to exercise restraint to ensure peace and security in the state.