Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, March 01 2009:
Taking strong exception to the Cabinet decision that seeks to put all function of Umanglai (forest deities) and related activities under the control of the Govindajee Temple Board, the Umanglai Kanba Apunba Lup has threatened to launch various forms of agitation from March 8 in case the Cabinet decision is not rescinded by March 7. A decision to this effect was adopted during a public meeting held at Kangla hall today.
The meeting resolved to appeal to the Government to roll back the Cabinet decision and to send written appeals on the same matter to all the sixty MLAs.
In case the appeal goes in vain and the Cabinet decision is not rescinded by March 7, intense agitation would be launched from the next day, the meeting agreed.
The meeting also resolved that Maibas, Maibis and other attendants serving Umanglai should not have any relation with the Govindajee Temple Board so that the Sanamahi faith and Hindu religion do not intrude into each others' sphere.
In case, any Maiba or Maibi is found working with Govindajee Temple Board, he/she would be ostracised and barred from participating in any rites and rituals of Umanglai.
Giving the key-note address of the function, convenor of the Umanglai Kanba Lup (UKAL) M Maniton observed that Umanglais are closely associated with the religious and social lives of the indigenous people.
Addressing the meeting, secretary of the Meetei National Front Makuichung Kabui lamented that even though indigenous people put Umanglais on the highest pedestal of reverence and are closely linked with the indigenous culture, there is no policy/arrangement to safeguard Umanglai compounds and related activities.
The meeting was attended by MNF advisor Moirangthem Naodalemkhomba Meetei and Tokpam Thawailemba Metei, Meetei Mayek Expert Committee member Ng Kangjiya Mangang and Irungbam Lukhoi Meetei as presidium members.