Concern For A Mighty Still Helpless Loktak

March 29, 2010

Response to the quenries of all Well wishers of NECEER, Imphal regarding the recent developments (TEHELKA allegations) of Loktak Conservation Project in Manipur.

NECEER, Imphal is really concerned about the developments that is going in Manipur regarding the controversial project. As we already mentioned in our press release, we did our own research regarding the company way back in January 2010 when news come up in daily newspaper regarding the project.

We were gearing up for the campaign, however we took our time out to approach the company to take some help for the campaign (NECEER, Imphal is a very young organisation hence we need support and help from all sectors of life). However we couldnot find the whereabout of the company, then we put the issue during our discussion at Imphal Campaign. Dr. Ranjan RK also cited this controversial company in his speech.

Recent issue of Tehelka revealed some details of the company, however NECEER, Imphal think proper legal action should be taken up before coming to an conclusion. NECEER, Imphal also hope the company should clarify themselves with strong prove and support of its existence and moreover its commitement towards the conservation of Loktak Lake.

People of Manipur are more concerned for the conservation of this natural hertiage rather than any controversial issues surrounding any conservation projects. Law and Order in Manipur is very fragile and every such action leads to protest and strikes which could end without any solution.

NECEER, Imphal is an educational and research oriented organisation, not an environmental advocay organisation thats why we call upon all environmental advocay organisations in Manipur to take up legal action and come out with a solution. However, NECEER will try our best to get detail information both from Government as well as from those alleging the company.

NECEER, Imphal like all nature lovers, really cares for our rich biodiversity of North East India. With thousands of campaigners and volunteers across the globe, we are trying our best to create awareness about the problems both man-made and natural which are leading to the destruction of Loktak Lake, endangered species and fragile ecosystems (wetlands, sacred groves etc).

** Khuraijam Jibankumar Singh, ALS (Associate of Linnean Society of London), Managing Trustee of NECEER, Imphal is Worldwide Co-ordinator of the campaign.