In a three-and-a-half-hour-long meeting between the 19-delegation members of Manipur CSOs and the officials of the MHA, held today in New Delhi, discussions concluded on the future roadmap for a lasting solution to the current crisis. Several key issues confronting the people were also tabled by the CSOs collectively during the meeting.
The MHA officials who attended the meeting included Advisor (Northeast) A.K. Mishra, Joint Director – Intelligence Bureau Rajesh Kamble, and other senior officials from the MHA. The 19-delegate member CSO team included 5 from FOCS, and 7 members each from AMUCO and COCOMI respectively.
The CSOs collectively raised and reaffirmed their non-compromising stance on any initiative that could undermine the territorial integrity of the state; the urgent need to ensure free movement for all, which is a constitutional obligation of the government; time-bound resettlement of IDPs in their respective places within this year in a phase-wise manner; and the necessity for NRC implementation to address the issue of illegal immigrants. Importantly, CSOs raised voices against the extension of the SoO agreements without a prior comprehensive and amicable understanding among all stakeholders within the state.
A memorandum regarding urgent concerns over farmers’ security and safety was also submitted to the Union Home Minister through MHA officials during the meeting.
Additional issues raised included the pending enquiry report on the Gwaltabi incident, and a detailed report was also sought for necessary investigation and intervention regarding the construction of a 343 km-long illegal road along the Churachandpur – Kangpokpi axis.
Future rounds of talks are expected to be held in Imphal, as the MHA has also been urged. The delegation conveyed its willingness to participate in future meetings with all stakeholders, provided such initiatives serve the larger interest of restoring lasting peace and normalcy in the state.
