ILP demand gains more steam
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, June 30, 2012:
"If no definite resolution is taken in connection with re-introduction of Inner Line Permit (ILP) system in the state during the ongoing Assembly session, we are prepared to launch various intense agitations", Secretary of Federation of Regional Indigenous Societies (FREINDS) Joy Chingakham has stated.
Speaking to media persons on the sideline of a Wakat Meepham staged to exert pressure on the Government for re-introduction of ILP system in the state at the community hall of Wangkhei Keithel Ashangbi today, Joy observed that ILP can be re-introduced in Manipur if the state Assembly adopts a resolution in this regard.
So, if the Assembly fails to do its duty, then FREINDS would be compelled to launch various in intense agitations.
Advisor of FREINDS H Kulla said that introduction of Inner Line Permit system is a means to protect not only the territorial integrity of a State but also the identity of the people.
It would also help in preventing outsiders from taking ownership of the land belonging to the indigenous people.
The system is already in place in Northeastern states like Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram with due approval of Constitution of India.
So, why can't the same be implemented in Manipur?, he questioned.
As there is no such Constitutionally approved restrictive regime in Manipur, there has been steady increased in the number of outsiders and they have been given permanent settlement and become owners of the land, he pointed out, and added that this calls for immediate implementation of Inner Line Permit System to safeguard the rights of indigenous people.
Organised under the joint aegis of FREINDS, Planning and Progressive Committee and Naharol Shintha Kanglup, Wangkhei, the protest demonstration was also participated by MLA of Yaiskul A/C E Chand.