Meitei NRIs and individuals of Indian origin from around the world have joined hands to author an open letter titled, ‘Urgent Plea for Immediate Intervention to Restore Normalcy and Harmony in Manipur’
In the midst of ongoing ethnic strife in Manipur, a heartfelt plea has emerged from the global Meitei community, directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Hundreds of Meitei NRIs and individuals of Indian origin from around the world have joined hands to author an open letter titled, ‘Urgent Plea for Immediate Intervention to Restore Normalcy and Harmony in Manipur.’ Their impassioned appeal implores Prime Minister Modi to take urgent steps to restore peace and stability in the northeastern state, PTI reported
The open letter, which garnered over 1,300 signatures within a mere 48 hours, was officially submitted to the Prime Minister’s Office on September 4. It opens with a poignant observation: “As India advances on the path of development and readies itself to host the G20 summit, the persistent violence in Manipur looms as a significant threat to these achievements. The unrelenting violence in Manipur has torn apart the social fabric of the state.”
The Meitei diaspora, acting as custodians of a vision for a united and harmonious Manipur within the broader tapestry of India, earnestly requests the Prime Minister to intervene decisively and prevent further escalation of the situation. Their plea echoes the sentiment of millions of Manipuris yearning for lives devoid of fear, marked by peace, stability, and safety.
With deep respect, they entreat Prime Minister Modi to personally engage with the Chief Minister of Manipur and relevant authorities to restore normalcy in the state. Their message emphasizes the shared responsibility of safeguarding the innocent citizens of Manipur, who have borne the unbearable weight of suffering.
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Since ethnic clashes erupted on May 3, more than 160 people have lost their lives, and hundreds more have been injured
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These clashes stemmed from a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ organized in the hill districts, in protest of the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status
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Meiteis, who comprise approximately 53 percent of Manipur’s population, predominantly inhabit the Imphal Valley, while Tribals Nagas and Kukis make up 40 percent of the population and reside in the hill districts
The letter underscores the transformative power of leadership, highlighting that, “As the leader of our great nation, you have the power to shape the destiny of our Manipur and illuminate the path of effective governance and empathy. You can bring about the much-needed unity among the people of Manipur.” They humbly invite the Prime Minister to visit Manipur and witness firsthand the plight of those affected by the senseless violence and ongoing turmoil.
The presence of Prime Minister Modi in Manipur, they assert, would instill hope and a profound sense of security among those adversely affected by the violence. Furthermore, the ongoing turmoil has placed the state’s farmers, the backbone of Manipuri society, in grave jeopardy. Tragic incidents like the shooting of Salam Jotin, a 37-year-old farmer, while working in his field, illustrate the dire predicament faced by these individuals. The letter also calls attention to the displacement of numerous farmers who are now forced to reside in relief camps. This has put Manipur on the precipice of a conflict-induced famine and starvation, as farmers are unable to tend to their fields despite the presence of security forces.
The consequences of the violence extend to Manipur’s educational landscape, where thousands of students have been compelled to abandon their studies due to the ongoing unrest. This unfortunate circumstance not only truncates the individual aspirations of these young minds but also hampers the overall progress and prosperity of society. The letter underscores that putting an end to this senseless violence is paramount for preserving the dreams and ambitions of Manipur’s youth.
Recognizing the intricate complexities within Manipuri society, including the Meiteis, Nagas, and Kuki communities, each with its distinct identities and aspirations, the letter acknowledges the pivotal role of the Prime Minister’s esteemed office. It calls for meaningful dialogues and initiatives to foster understanding and collaboration among these communities, paving the way for peaceful coexistence.
Copies of this heartfelt appeal have also been sent to key officials, including Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh.
Since ethnic clashes erupted on May 3, more than 160 people have lost their lives, and hundreds more have been injured. These clashes stemmed from a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ organized in the hill districts, in protest of the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Meiteis, who comprise approximately 53 percent of Manipur’s population, predominantly inhabit the Imphal Valley, while Tribals Nagas and Kukis make up 40 percent of the population and reside in the hill districts.
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