Talks fail, blockade continues
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, November 20 2012:
With the talks held between the Government of Manipur and the Kuki State Demand Committee (KSDC) failing to break the ice, the agitating Kuki body has reiterated its stand to continue with the ongoing public blockade, stating that the blockade would not be lifted until and unless the Union Government gives a written assurance and invite the Committee for political dialogue.
However, KSDC has agreed to relax the blockade for those officials and individuals who possess valid documents for the Manipur Sangai Festival and TET.
As scheduled, the talk between the Government of Manipur and the agitating Kuki body was held in the office chamber of Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam at around 10.30 am today.
Education Minister Moirangthem Okendro, MLA Yamthong Haokip, Chief Secy DS Poonia and DGP Y Joykumar were also present during the talk.
Though no definite solution could be brought about, Gaikhangam claimed that today's talks proved effective for both sides and the end result is expected very soon while talking to mediapersons after the talks.
On the other hand, addressing media persons at Churachandpur today, K Khongsai,Spokesperson of KSDC, conveyed that an emergency meeting of the KSDC was held at Bijang Vengnom, Churachandpur to discuss the outcome of the meeting with the State Government.
Considering the appeal made by representatives of the State Government for suspension of the ongoing bandh in view of Sangai Festival and TET, special consideration will be given to the participants with valid documents.
However, the Committee stands firm on its public blockade until the Union Government gives a written assurance and invite the committee for initiating political dialogue to bring any end to the Kuki demand for homeland.
While appreciating the initiatives taken up by the State Government to pressurize the Government of India for the "Kuki Solution", K Khongsai appealed to all the sections of society, groups and individuals to support the aspiration of the neglected Kuki people.
The KSDC also condemned in unequivocal term the atrocities committed by the state forces in connivance with some vested individuals by causing injury to an elderly woman identified as Nemkim (45)at Mongneljang along Imphal-Ukhrul Road at around 11 am today while the KSDC leaders were holding meeting with the representatives of the State Goivernment.
Nemkim has been hospitalized at Imphal.
Benjamin Mate, Secretary of KSDC, who was also present during the press conference, said that though Kuki militants have signed Suspension of Operation (SoO) for quite a long time, no move has been initiated for a political dialogue.
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