Manipuri Muslim body urges Centre for restoration of peace in Manipur

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaOctober 29, 2024

The United Meitei Pangal Committee Manipur (UMPC) on Monday called on the Central government to take strong measures to restore peace, hold those responsible for the ongoing crisis in Manipur accountable, and ensure justice for affected communities.

Representing 239,886 Meitei Muslims – 8.4% of the state’s population – UMPC emphasized the urgent need for intervention.

In a statement, UMPC president Alhaj Moulana Muheiyuddin and general secretary Raees Ahamed Tampak expressed deep concern over the impact on common citizens, who are bearing the brunt of the unrest. They noted that people are feeling “helpless, extremely worried, and restless,” with many experiencing a profound sense of despair and insecurity.

“They are dying alive,” they remarked, urging immediate action to alleviate the distressing situation. Despite ongoing challenges, UMPC stressed the importance of swift efforts to bring about peace and stability.

“We urgently request the government to intervene and establish peace, tranquillity, and harmony in our state Manipur without any further delay,” they also said.

They highlighted the need to hold accountable those responsible for the prolonged unrest, which has spanned over 500 days, and urged authorities to provide justice for the affected communities.

The UMPC underscored Manipur’s rich history as an independent kingdom before its merger with the Indian Union in 1949, a transition marked by economic and social challenges. Over the past decades, ethnic-based communal politics have intensified, with recent clashes between Meitei and Kuki communities worsening the situation. The organization also noted how the COVID-19 pandemic has compounded the state’s economic struggles, increasing vulnerability among its people.

Further highlighting the impacts of the ongoing violence, UMPC pointed to the devastating toll on common citizens, who are experiencing significant psychological and economic distress due to the loss of life, widespread destruction, and displacement. They reaffirmed that only a concerted and timely response from the government can help alleviate the suffering and create a path toward sustainable peace in the region.