Northeast Desk, 17th November: In response to the recent declaration of “self-rule” in certain districts of Manipur by the Indigenous Tribal Forum (ITLF), the state government has asserted that such a statement holds no legal or constitutional standing.
Basanta Kumar Thounaojam, who serves as the Education Minister and Law Minister, announced that decisive legal action is being initiated against ITLF and individuals associated with the controversial declaration.
Addressing a press conference on November 16, Minister Basanta Kumar expressed strong condemnation for the ITLF’s assertion of “self-rule,” emphasizing that the statement lacked any legal or constitutional basis. He deemed it an irresponsible move seemingly motivated to disrupt the state’s law and order.
“This irresponsible statement appears to be motivated and aimed at vitiating and disturbing the law and order situation in the state,” said Minister Basanta Kumar.
A meeting of ruling legislators convened today reinforced the government’s stance, with unanimous denouncement of ITLF’s declaration. Minister Basanta Kumar further disclosed that appropriate legal measures are being set in motion against ITLF and the individuals involved in the controversial statement.
The ITLF had, on November 15, proclaimed “self-rule” in districts predominantly inhabited by the Kuki community. This announcement has stirred significant controversy and raised concerns about potential ramifications on the region’s stability.
