STDCM

Scheduled Tribe Demand Committee of Manipur for inclusion of indigenous Meetei/Meitei community in ST list as specified in Article 342(1) of India

[STDCM @stdcm_org]

The Scheduled Tribe Demand Committee, Manipur (STDCM) is organizing a public convention at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen, Palace Compound on October 6, 2024, to address the demand for Scheduled Tribe status for the indigenous #Meetei/#Meitei community.

In light of the ongoing crisis, the need for constitutional protection through ST status has become increasingly urgent.

Various organizations are echoing the call for ST status for the indigenous #Meetei/#Meitei community.

STDCM would like to reiterate that the demand for ST status of #Meetei/#Meitei must remain distinct and should not be merged with other issues or demands.

The convention, scheduled for October 6, 2024, from 11:00 AM IST to 3:30 PM IST, will focus on discussing the demand and outlining future actions to advance this cause.

STDCM encourages clubs, civil society organizations, Meira Paibi Lups, student groups, and others to participate in the convention and contribute their insights.

Additionally, individuals can submit suggestions via WhatsApp at 8794229206 or 8257912470, or email @ [email protected], as time constraints may limit opportunities for everyone to voice their opinions during the public convention.

#STStatusForMeitei #STStatusForMeetei #ScheduledTribeStatus #STRecommendation #Manipur #SaveMeitei #SaveMeetei
@brijkishowr1986

[STDCM @stdcm_org]

https://t.co/0OEXa92ZpV
Laishram Brijkishore, Joint General Secretary feels that STDCM's long-standing demand for ST status for the #Meitei/#Meetei community has been vindicated by the recent groundbreaking verdict of the Supreme Court of India. The verdict now allows states in India to sub-classify Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in order to provide quotas within these groups. This reaffirms STDCM's advocacy that our demand is not solely about reservation policy, but also about securing genuine land protection and political rights under the framework of Scheduled Tribe community as outlined in Article 342(1) of India.

#STStatusForMeitei #STStatusForMeetei #ScheduledTribeStatus #STRecommendation #Manipur #SaveMeitei #SaveMeetei
@brijkishowr1986

[STDCM @stdcm_org]

Withdraw statement: STDCM to Chief Minister N Biren Singh

The Scheduled Tribe Demand Committee of Manipur (STDCM) appeals to Chief Minister N Biren Singh on behalf of the indigenous #Meitei/#Meetei community to withdraw his statement linking the current crisis in Manipur to the High Court order issued on March 27, 2023 regarding the ST status demand of the #Meitei/#Meetei community. The Chief Minister had stated this statement during Budget session discussion of the State Assembly on 01st August 2024.

STDCM wishes to highlight that the recent statement significantly contradicts the Chief Minister's earlier claims, in which he explicitly stated that issues such as illegal immigration, the eviction of encroachers from Reserved and Protected Forests, and the fight against drugs are fundamental contributors to the ongoing crisis.

Despite the crisis beginning on May 3, 2023, when the All Tribal Students' Union, Manipur (ATSUM) held a solidarity March to protest the Manipur High Court order, it has been observed from both ground and media sources that the violent incidents occurred mainly in certain areas predominantly inhabited by the Kuki and allied tribes, such as Churachandpur, Moreh, and Kangpokpi.

If the demand for Meitei/Meetei's ST status had been the root cause of the crisis, then violence would have also taken place in other regions predominantly populated by non-Kuki tribes in the state of #Manipur.

STDCM asserts that the Chief Minister's remarks could potentially confuse the general public, both within and outside of Manipur, on a national and international scale regarding the true underlying factors of the ongoing crisis.

STDCM refutes the chief minister's statement and calls on N Biren Singh to withdraw his remarks, warning that failure to do so would be seen as supporting a deceptive misinformation campaign by a specific group aiming to shift focus away from the true cause of the crisis for their own ulterior motives.

Read news about it @ https://t.co/hVq8e9hTlx

#STStatusForMeitei #STStatusForMeetei #ScheduledTribeStatus #STRecommendation #Manipur #SaveMeitei #SaveMeetei
@brijkishowr1986

[STDCM @stdcm_org]

Scheduled Tribe demand is non-negotiable and cannot be swapped with other demands: STDCM

The Scheduled Tribe Demand Committee Manipur (STDCM) reiterates the importance of the state government recommending the inclusion of #Meetei/#Meitei in the ST list to the central government. STDCM affirms that it will not consider any other requests and remains steadfast in its singular demand for ST status of the community.

STDCM further emphasize that the preservation of Manipur's territorial and administrative integrity should not be conflated with the Meiteis' call for Constitutional security through ST status.

STDCM urges the Cabinet to make a decision on sending the recommendation requested by the Centre to initiate the process of adding #Meetei/#Meitei to the ST list.

STDCM would like to appeal to all the Ministers and MLAs, who have earlier endorsed the popular ST
status demand of #Meetei/#Meitei to turn their verbal commitment into tangible steps and engage in dialogue with the Chief Minister.

STDCM expresses gratitude to all the organizations and individuals involved in advancing the movement to grant ST status to the #Meetei/#Meitei community. STDCM also have a plan to convene a consultative meeting and people's convention in the first week of September 2024 to determine the next steps of the ST demand.

STDCM urges all individuals to participate in the upcoming consultative meeting and the people's convention.

STDCM has continuously been pressuring both the Central and State Governments to grant ST status to the #Meetei/#Meitei community under Article 342 (1) since 2012. STDCM would like to emphasize that the initial action needed to meet ST status demand is for the State Government to submit the ethnographic and socio-economic reports of the #Meetei/#Meitei community to the Centre, along with a recommendation.

The Centre through the ministry of Tribal Affairs had sent a letter to the State Government on May 29, 2013 in response to STDCM's representation. However, it may be noted that successive State Governments have yet to forward the recommendation to the Centre.

STDCM have paused the ST demand movement for a period of time because of the turmoil in Manipur.

STDCM would like to emphasize the need to provide Constitutional protection to the #Meetei/#Meitei community in order to preserve its identity. STDCM feels that granting ST status is the most effective method to safeguard the land and identity of any community in India.

STDCM emphasize that inclusion of #Meetei/#Meitei in the ST list should not be compromised by other requests or demands.

STDCM also emphasize the urgent need for the Government to swiftly address the resettlement of Internally Displaced People (IDPs) to their original homes. It expressed disappointment over the Government's failure to resolve the crisis in Manipur.

Read detailed news @ https://t.co/7YAZsSogKB and https://t.co/Ipil3GH98p

#STStatusForMeitei #STStatusForMeetei #ScheduledTribeStatus #STRecommendation #Manipur #SaveMeitei #SaveMeetei
@brijkishowr1986

[STDCM @stdcm_org]

Granting Scheduled Tribe (ST) status lies with the Parliament, not the judiciary : STDCM

The Scheduled Tribe Demand Committee of Manipur (STDCM) emphasized that the ultimate authority to declare a community as a Scheduled Tribe lies with the Parliament and the Government, stating that the judiciary does not have the jurisdiction to make a final decision on this matter.

During a press conference held at Ima Khunthokhanbi Shanglen in DM College complex today, Laishram Brijkishore, the joint secretary of STDCM, addressed the issue of confusion arising among certain individuals as a result of inaccurate reporting by certain national media outlets regarding the recent Manipur High Court ruling on the deletion of Para number 17 (iii) from the judgment issued by the former Chief Justice of the Court on March 27 last year in relation to the #Meetei/#Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe status.

As per the STDCM leader, the judgment's Para 17 clause (iii) states that the first respondent (Manipur Government) should promptly review the petitioner's case for the inclusion of the #Meetei/#Meitei community in the ST list. It is recommended that this review be completed within a maximum of four weeks from the date of receiving a copy of this order. The Meetei (Meitei) Tribe Union has filed the petition.

Brijkishore expressed disappointment over certain media outlets misrepresenting the High Court's judgment on the Meitei's ST status demand, leading to confusion among the public.

It is important to note that the matter concerning the ST status demand from #Meetei/#Meitei is not within the jurisdiction of any Court according to the law of the land, as clarified.

Brijkishore mentioned that filing a complaint regarding the ST demand issue in a Court would not be sustainable based on the advice of legal professionals consulted by STDCM earlier.

Many individuals recommended that the STDCM seek assistance from the Court in order to push for the inclusion of #Meetei/#Meitei in the ST list. Brijkishore added that STDCM deliberated on seeking judicial assistance with experts, only to discover that it would not be feasible.

The Court does not have the authority to grant ST status to any community, as confirmed by the Constitution bench of the Supreme Court in the case of "State of Maharashtra vs Milind & Ors., (2001) 1 SCC 4," he stated.

The sole grievance that can be brought before a Court regarding the Meetei/Meitei's request for ST status pertains to the unresolved issue of the letter dispatched by the Centre to the State on May 29, 2013, as of today, as stated by Brijkishiore. He further mentioned that the case might have been escalated to the Manipur High Court due to the State Government's negligence in submitting the recommendation requested by the Centre.

He proceeded to mention that a misinterpretation of the Manipur High Court's ruling from last year regarding the submission of the requested recommendation to the Centre led some individuals to believe that the Court was showing bias.

Emphasizing that the responsibility of granting ST status lies with the Government and the Parliament, Brijkishore highlighted that the failure of the State Government to forward the recommendation to the Centre is hindering the #Meetei/#Meitei's quest for ST status.

Brijkishore has urged all the #Meetei/#Meitei MLAs and Ministers to take necessary action in the best interest of the people, emphasizing that STDCM has submitted a memorandum to each of them for sending the recommendation in January 2024.

It is crucial to confer ST status upon Meetei/Meitei in order to safeguard its future, he emphasized, urging the State Government to prioritize this issue and make a unified decision to forward the recommendation for ensuring Constitutional protection of the ethnic community.

Brijkishore also urged the State Government to alleviate the concerns of individuals currently listed in the ST category and to persuade them that the inclusion of #Meetei/#Meitei in the ST list would be advantageous for everyone.

🚩Read the news @ https://t.co/Tg81MixaVe

#STStatusForMeitei #STStatusForMeetei #ScheduledTribeStatus #STRecommendation #Manipur

[STDCM @stdcm_org]

https://t.co/2fUjVknh0N

[STDCM @stdcm_org]

'Operative part of High Court order on #Meitei/#Meetei ST issue still stands'

Advocate Ningombam Bupenda Meitei of the High Court of Manipur has explicitly affirmed that the operative section of the court's judgment and order, issued on March 27, 2023, remains valid.

According to the ruling and directive of the High Court, the State Government of Manipur is obligated to provide a response to the Ministry of Tribal Affairs' letter addressed to the Government of Manipur in May 2013. This pertains to the matter of the #Meitei/#Meetei community's request for Scheduled Tribe status.

Advocate Bupenda emphasized the importance of thoroughly examining both judgments resulting from Writ Petition No.229 of 2023 and Review Petition No.12 of 2023 in conjunction, rather than relying on a single judgment and interpreting it incompletely.

He contended that based on the High Court's ruling in Writ Petition No.229 of 2023, there are four provisions in Paragraph 17. However, only Paragraph 17 clause (iii) was removed in the recent judgment of the High Court in Review Petition No.12 of 2023.

The remaining clauses (i), (ii), and (iv) were not removed by the Review Petition judgment. It is crucial to note that Para 17 clause (ii) continues to exist in the Writ Petition No.229 of 2023.

In accordance with clause (ii) of Paragraph 17 in the Writ Petition ruling, the first respondent (State Government) is instructed to provide their recommendation in response to the letter dated May 29, 2013 from the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India.

In the mentioned Writ Petition, the State of Manipur is identified as the first respondent.

Therefore, it remains valid to state that the State Government of Manipur is obligated by the ruling and directive of the High Court in Writ Petition No.229 of 2023, specifically in Para 17(ii), to provide their recommendation in response to the letter from the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs regarding the Meitei ST matter in 2013.

He also contended that a simple recommendation from the State Government does not equate to the Meitei being included in the ST list, as this can only be achieved through a Constitutional amendment by Parliament.

He further highlighted that the High Court correctly removed Para 17 (iii) of the Writ Petition in the Review Petition, as it contradicted the established law by the Constitution Bench regarding the exclusive authority of Parliament to make decisions on the inclusion or exclusion of communities from the ST category.

According to paragraph 17(iii) of the High Court's ruling, the State Government, as the first respondent, is instructed to promptly review the petitioners' case for the inclusion of the #Meetei/#Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribe list. This review should ideally be completed within four weeks from the date of receiving a copy of this order. The review should be based on the claims presented in the writ petition and in accordance with the order issued in WP(C) No 4281 of 2002 on May 26, 2003, by the Gauhati High Court.

He emphasized that it is solely the Parliament's prerogative to add or remove a community from the Scheduled Tribe list, as neither the Supreme Court nor the High Court has the authority to do so.

Read the news @ https://t.co/tRbcdB5KTh

#STStatusForMeitei #STStatusForMeetei #ScheduledTribeStatus #STRecommendation #Manipur #SaveMeitei #SaveMeetei @brijkishowr1986

[Dr Nabakishor Haobijam @drnabakishor]

The author being an ex-bureaucrat is wilfully playing ignorant.

It's not for other ethnic communities to decide whether meiteis are tribe/advanced or whatever or not.

ITS FOR THE INDIAN STATE TO DECIDE.

Please submit your counter arguments to the STATE. Stop playing politics.

The Sixth Schedule question is a complex one....not as simple as it is showcased by the author. It's not the STATE government only.

The author is wilfully ignoring the background of Greater Nagalim and Kukiland Demand ....... And the SOVEREIGNTY DEMAND OF MEITEI INSURGENCY (armed freedom struggle)

The 40 seats are NOT RESERVED FOR MEITEIS. THEY ARE UNRESERVED SEATS. Whereas 19 seats are RESERVED for TRIBALS. This number of seats are not done by STATE Government.

Reservation in Government jobs are SPECIFICALLY ACCORDED WITH. Bring out the actual data without the insinuation of 50% by meiteis.

And why is the GOM and related departments not fighting this kind of disinformation?

[STDCM @stdcm_org]

STDCM has acknowledged a memorandum presented by the All Naga Students' Association, Manipur (ANSAM) to the Governor of Manipur on February 17, 2024, expressing opposition to STDCM's demand for the inclusion of the indigenous #Meitei/#Meetei tribe of Manipur in the ST list. STDCM deems ANSAM's actions regrettable and unnecessary.

Read about ANSAM's memorandum @ https://t.co/dQMDHXgWbv

STDCM emphasizes that its demand for ST status for the indigenous #Meitei/#Meetei community aligns with the Constitution of India. The Indian Government has laid down specific procedures, modalities, and criteria for evaluating requests for inclusion in the ST list. Ultimately, it is up to the Government to determine the validity of such inclusion.

The demand made by the #Meitei/#Meetei community for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status does not entail any form of social status reversal or historical downgrading. Instead, it is a matter that should be assessed and decided upon by the relevant authority.

If ANSAM or any other organization or community has concerns, they should seek resolution from the State Government rather than opposing a fellow indigenous tribe's request for Constitutional protections. This opposition could potentially result in unnecessary misunderstandings among the indigenous communities.

STDCM asserts that its demand is not aimed at encroaching upon the interests of other communities that are already part of the ST list. The objective is to ensure constitutional protections for the preservation of the indigenous #Meitei/#Meetei tribe in Manipur. A collective endeavor is required to tackle the challenges presented by external influences.

STDCM strongly urges all fellow communities in Manipur, particularly the indigenous groups, to support the ST status demand of the #Meitei/#Meetei community. This constitutional demand is vital for their existence in their ancestral homeland. Going against it would mean disregarding their right to survival, which is unfair.

STDCM is dedicated to fostering harmony among the various indigenous communities in Manipur, promoting peaceful coexistence and mutual advancement.

#STStatusForMeitei #STStatusForMeetei #ScheduledTribeStatus #STRecommendation #Manipur #SaveMeitei #SaveMeetei @ukhrultimes @brijkishowr1986

[STDCM @stdcm_org]

Scheduled Tribe Demand Committee of Manipur (STDCM), World Meitei Council (WMC) and Salai Kanba Lup (SKL) held a joint press conference on January 16th, 2024 at the STDCM office in DMU campus, Imphal. During the conference, they appealed to the Manipur Government, specifically to Chief Minister Shri N Biren Singh, to promptly submit the necessary recommendation, along with the two recent reports on Ethnography and Socio-Economic Status, as required by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. It is crucial that this submission is made before January 31st, 2024 or the upcoming Lok Sabha election, expected to occur between April and May 2024, in order to include the #Meetei/#Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribe list of India.

#STStatusForMeitei #STStatusForMeetei #ScheduledTribeStatus #STRecommendation #Manipur #SaveMeitei #SaveMeetei @brijkishowr1986

[STDCM @stdcm_org]

On January 16th, 2024, the World Meitei Council (WMC), Salai Kanba Lup (SKL), and the Scheduled Tribe Demand Committee of Manipur (STDCM) jointly held a press conference at the STDCM office in DMU campus, Imphal. During the press conference, they made an appeal to the Manipur Government, specifically to the honorable Chief Minister Shri N Biren Singh, to kindly submit the necessary recommendation along with the two recent reports (Ethnography & Socio-Economic Status) as mandated by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs at the earliest or before the upcoming Lok Sabha election, which is expected to take place between April and May 2024. This submission is crucial for the inclusion of the #Meetei/#Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribe list of India.

#STStatusForMeitei #STStatusForMeetei #ScheduledTribeStatus #STRecommendation #Manipur #SaveMeitei #SaveMeetei @WorldMeeteiConv @brijkishowr1986

[STDCM @stdcm_org]

STDCM recently came across an article titled "An Appeal: Follow transparent, credible and scientific processes for Meitei community ST demand" - https://t.co/oUW2uMYOEc - authored by Mr Ngaranmi Shimray, an activist and political observer based in New Delhi. We would like to express our gratitude to the esteemed writer for highlighting the importance of transparent, credible, and scientific processes in addressing the ST demand for #Meetei/#Meitei. However, we have noticed certain self-contradictory statements and finger-pointing in the article, which we believe are unnecessary and do not align with a well-researched piece.

STDCM has been at the forefront of the #Meetei/#Meitei ST status demand movement since the later part of 2012, with a clear conscience and transparent approach. It is important to note that this movement is not driven by emotions, as Mr. Shimray has portrayed it, and it is also unrelated to the current unfortunate turmoil in Manipur. From the very beginning, STDCM has been advocating for the ST status through peaceful and democratic means, in accordance with the democratic rights granted to Indian citizens by the Constitution.

The letter referred to by Mr. Shimray, which was received from the Ministry of Tribal Affairs on 29th May 2013, explicitly stated that a particular recommendation, along with the recent socio-economic survey report and ethnographic report from a reputable agency/organization, should be provided to the Ministry of Tribal Affairs for the purpose of considering the proposal to include the #Meitei/#Meetei community in the Scheduled Tribe list of Manipur. Also, the High Court of Manipur, in their order dated March 27, 2023, directed the state administration to send the necessary recommendation, along with the latest two reports of the #Meitei/#Meetei community, as per the Ministry of Tribal Affairs' letter. However, the government has yet to respond to this directive. The honourable acting Chief Justice of the High Court of Manipur issued this order in response to a writ petition filed by eight members of the Meetei (Meitei) Tribe Union. The petitioners sought a writ of mandamus to compel the state government to submit a recommendation in response to the Ministry of Tribal Affairs' letter (no 1902005/2012-C&IM dated May 29, 2013) within two months or within a specified timeframe.

That is precisely why STDCM has been persistently engaging with lawmakers and the Government of Manipur, urging them to take the necessary steps of forwarding the required recommendation, along with the two mentioned reports, to be prepared by a reputable agency or organization as specified by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. As for the allegation that STDCM is disregarding this advice, it is important to note that STDCM are actually pursuing a policy of inclusiveness rather than majoritarianism. STDCM's aim is to demonstrate that a significant portion of the population supports the ST status for the Meitei community through initiatives such as the "missed call campaign" and their own assertion of tribal identity. It is also worth mentioning that the "missed call campaign" mentioned by Mr. Shimray is conducted by another ST demand entity, along with three other entities, all in support of the ST demand. Also, the writer's claim that the resumption of STDCM's movement will only result in more complications for the state is unfounded and unjustifiably provocative. The recent press release (https://t.co/2gZGlpPLJS) from STDCM, issued on December 31, 2023, clearly demonstrates their intention to collaborate with the Ministers and MLAs, who have shown support for their cause earlier. STDM’s objective is to gather their support in sending pre-requisite recommendations for the inclusion of #Meetei/#Meitei, so that Centre can verify whether #Meetei/#Meitei can be enlisted in the ST List or not.

Mr. Shimray's claim that the Meitei community does not meet any of the Lokur Committee's criteria, except for having a distinctive culture, contradicts his suggestion for a transparent, scientific, and credible process to be followed for the ST demand's two prerequisite reports: the Socio-economic survey and Ethnography. The conclusion has already been drawn by him, even though the scientific approach to these reports has not yet been initiated by any reputable agency or organization, as per the criteria set by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs on 29th May 2013.

Also, Mr. Shimray's claim that the ST demand is solely focused on taking over tribal lands in the hill areas of Manipur has been addressed by STDCM on our X platform previously. We once again emphasized that the Imphal valley, which is inhabited by the #Meitei/#Meetei community, serves as the administrative, economic, communication, and commercial hub of the state. It is equipped with excellent healthcare facilities and educational institutions, comparable to any other state capital in India. Consequently, people from all corners of the state migrate to this region in search of better economic prospects and an improved standard of living. It is common for individuals to move from challenging living conditions to more comfortable ones, from poor habitation environments to better ones, and from rural areas to urban centers. The apprehension felt by certain individuals from within the Meitei community or the existing ST enlisted communities of Manipur regarding the #Meiteis / #Meeteis attaining ST status stems not only from the perceived risk of land encroachment by the #Meiteis / #Meeteis, but also from their awareness that our advancement cannot be hindered once the #Meiteis / #Meeteis achieve ST status. So, it may simply be a cause of performance anxiety. Please read details @ https://t.co/hGqmL990dk

Furthermore, it is worth noting that Mr. RK Nimai, a respected former IAS, has shed light on the misconception surrounding the alleged encroachment of land by the #Meitei community once ST status is granted to them. In one of his articles, he emphasizes that the #Meitei people are primarily settled in the valley and have no intention of migrating en masse to the hills, even if given the opportunity. They prefer to reside in the valleys, including those within the hills. To address the concerns of our hill brethren, it may be prudent to impose limitations on the number of #Meitei individuals and the size of their land holdings. The primary concern expressed is not the presence of #Meetei/#Meitei settlers per se, but rather the apprehension of affluent individuals purchasing vast tracts of land in the hills. However, it is crucial that the Valley Forest Reserve, which was declared by the State Darbar in 1932 and excluding areas subsequently designated as Reserved or Protected Forests, remains accessible to the #Meetei/#Meitei community without restrictions. By implementing these two measures, we can alleviate the concerns of the current Scheduled Tribes population. Read more @ https://t.co/ZBSUGCCbhD

From a technical standpoint, the current Scheduled Tribes (ST) do not possess locus standii regarding the addition of new tribes to the ST list. However, STDCM firmly upholds the value of engaging in meaningful dialogues to address any concerns that opposing communities may have regarding the rightful aspirations of the #Meetei/#Meitei community to be included in the ST list.

Mixing current issues in Manipur with the ST status demand of #Meitei/#Meetei by Mr. Shimray is unnecessary and the implied threat of a future issue to the legitimate democratic demand is unwarranted. It is not indicative of a responsible writer or citizen. As the metonymy goes, the pen is mightier than the sword, but the tongue holds even greater power when used wisely. A writer should exercise caution in their words and writings, ensuring proper research is conducted before claiming expertise on a subject. These shallow thoughts are perhaps a result of insufficient consideration.

#STStatusForMeitei #STStatusForMeetei #ScheduledTribeStatus #STRecommendation #Manipur #SaveMeitei #SaveMeetei @ukhrultimes @brijkishowr1986

[STDCM @stdcm_org]

Why ST Status Is The Way Forward For #Meiteis?
#Meitei, the tribe that settled in the central valley of #Manipur has been squeezed from all sides. Without permission they can't buy land in the hill areas which constitute about 90% of the geographical areas of the state while the 10% of central valley is open to all irrespective of the community.

Though Meiteis possess land in some flatlands within the hill districts like Churachandpur, Moreh, etc. Thus, the #Meiteis had been demanding protection under the Constitution which is mainly Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.

The Meitei felt that as a community they possess all the criteria laid down by the Lokur Committee for inclusion in the ST List. This was opposed by the existing STs of the state. In the past #Meitei with a false sense of superiority had not lobbied for inclusion. But now the demand for inclusion is becoming stringent. The movement has been peaceful till now with no violence.

Many of those opposing the inclusion of the #Meitei from within the community then had perhaps not read Sloka 12 and 13 of Chapter 214 of Arjunavanavasa of the Adi Parva of the critical version of Mahabharata which reads as "Crossing the kingdom of the Kalingas, the mighty one (Arjuna) proceeded, seeing on his way diverse countries and sacred spots and diverse delightful mansions and houses. Beholding the Mahendra Mountain adorned with the ascetics, he went to Manipura proceeding along the sea shore"; which means that the city of Manipura can only be located by the sea shore. Thus the Manipura of Mahabharata can never be the present Manipur as the latter does not lie near the seashore and the present name Manipur came only in the 17th century.

The existing STs of #Manipur did not oppose the inclusion of other tribes of other states in the list. Therefore, one can infer that they are concerned about the reservation quota and that the #Meitei will usurp land in the hill areas. Though technically, existing ST do not have locus standii on the inclusion of new tribes in the list, their concern cannot be wished away.

After the state government recommends after examining whether a tribe fulfils the criteria set down by the Lokur Committee, it is for the Centre to decide and place a Bill before the Parliament to redress the concern, the reservation quota as it exists today in the state may continue for the present ST and sub-quota may be provided so that one community do not garner major share. One can consider 45% for the Naga, 45% for the Kuki-Chin and 10% for those smaller communities which neither belong to both.

#Meitei are plain-dwelling tribe and they will not migrate en masse to the hills even if allowed. They will prefer to stay in the valleys, including those in the hills. Hence to allay the concern of the hill brethren, the number of Meitei and the size of their plot can be limited.

The major concern expressed is not the settlement of #Meitei per se but the fear of the purchase of large tracts of hill areas by moneyed people. However, the Valley Forest Reserve declared by the State Darbar in 1932, excluding those subsequently declared as Reserved or Protected Forest must be open freely to the Meitei. These two steps should allay the concern of the present ST.

The myth that some #Naga and #Meitei came from the same stock is contradicted if the #Meitei do not become ST.

The state government must examine the matter vis a vis the criteria laid down and expeditiously make recommendations before the movement turns violent.

It should ensure that reasonable demands are given without violence dispelling the notion that demands with violence only make the government consider it. The patience though seems to be running out.

- By: Dr RK Nimai, IAS (Retd)
Read the full article @ https://t.co/vIxzWUFsmU

#STStatusForMeitei #STStatusForMeetei #ScheduledTribeStatus #STRecommendation #Manipur #SaveMeitei # #

[STDCM @stdcm_org]

On December 29, 2023, the #Meetei/#Meitei Scheduled Tribe Demand Committee of Manipur (STDCM) submitted an affidavit to the Commission of Inquiry (Manipur violence 2023) at their Imphal office.

Former Gauhati High Court Chief Justice (Retd.) Ajay Lamba leads the Commission of Inquiry, which has its primary headquarters in New Delhi and an additional office located at Hotel Imphal in Imphal.

STDCM President Dhiraj Yumnam submitted the affidavit on behalf of the Committee, in the presence of other senior officials and advisors. Manipur High Court's advocate Ningombam Bupenda Meitei and his legal team have been engaged by the Committee in this matter.

During a press conference, Dhiraj Yumnam, the President of STDCM, clarified that the request to include $Meitei/#Meetei in the ST List of India is completely unrelated to the unfortunate events of May 3rd, 2023 in Manipur.

#STStatusForMeitei #STStatusForMeetei #ScheduledTribeStatus #STRecommendation #Manipur #SaveMeitei #SaveMeetei @brijkishowr1986

[E-Pao Manipur @epaomanipur]

Licypriya Kangujam lectured at IIT Bombay

She highlighted the challenges faced as one of the youngest child climate activists globally. IIT Bombay appreciated her works in the field of climate change and her contributions..
@LicypriyaK

Read full @ https://t.co/VdNclXaSUI

[Manipur Times @ManipurTimes]

Federation of Haomee's Humble Plea to President of India for exclusion of Chin Kuki Zo people from the status of Scheduled Tribe of Manipur.

It alleges manipulation by Kuki officer to include many Chin Kuki Zo groups in the ST list.

@rashtrapatibhvn #ST4Meiteis
@DraupdiMurmu @TribalAffairsIn

[STDCM @stdcm_org]

Rejoinder to "Encompassing Manipur centric problem solving approach, rather than Meitei centric" - Dr. RK Nimai Singh (Retired IAS)

After my article "Manipur Crisis: Why the ST status is the way forward for the Meitei" was published in Zeenews, a rejoinder was published first in Ukhrul Times, a news portal, and then reproduced in two popular papers, The People's Chronicle and The Sangai Express. The points raised therein have been placed before in the public domain with counter by a four-member team from amongst the #Meitei and it was then felt that a rejoinder is perhaps uncalled for.

However, an X handle Kuki-Zo Alliance attempted to put words in my mouth which was challenged by other handles and from this it is clear that this particular handle either has not gone through my article or is in a habit of misquoting to meet their ends. The author of the rejoinder had not expressly countered my arguments head-on but rather obliquely and it is good that engagement is made without rancour.

One feels why people should object to the state Government causing a study to prepare the Ethnographic study of the present-day #Meitei and the Socio-economic study of the Meitei as these two are the prerequisites for making a recommendation whether #Meitei deserves to be in the ST list or not. If the findings say they are eligible then why the hue and cry and if the findings come out negative, the #Meitei will have to stop demanding the ST Status. But from the study conducted by the #Meetei/#Meitei Tribe Union, other seems concerned that the Meitei will duly qualify for the ST tag. The author of the rejoinder also agrees to the need for the conduct of these studies. However, the subsequent claims that #Meitei cannot qualify as they are more educated and so on is uncalled for, as neither this author or him cannot make a call as it is for the competent authority to do so. In the 2019 Bill pending before the Rajya Sabha, Tai Ahom has been included and by no stretch of imagination can Meitei be called more advanced than the Tai Ahom.

The rejoinder brings out the grouse of the tribal that they regard as being treated as second class citizens. The perceived ineffective functioning of the Hill Areas Committee which was constituted by the 1972 Presidential Order under Article 371 C of the Constitution is a highly debatable point. It is a standing committee of the legislature comprising members elected from the Hill Areas and has nothing to do with the tribal status of the member. Kishore Thapa who was elected from Kangpokpi AC was a member. It is not a part of the executive and the effort to make it a part of the executive by creating a separate secretariat is the powers conferred to it. It would be prudent to seek the advice of the Hon'ble President whether the HAC can have a separate secretariat which can draft laws and monitor and supervise directly the activities of government departments. This will put to rest some of the demands. Wings of the Legislature cannot encroach upon the functions of the executive or vice versa as per the Constitution.

The demand for a Territorial Council like that of the Bodoland under Article 244 A deserves consideration but this need to be examined in detail whether the council will be based on ethnicity, administrative convenience, or otherwise and whether majority stakeholders agree to this idea. Whether one Council will suffice or whether there will be more than one and if so, how will the area be identified need proper study. Regarding the point raised for proper functioning of HAC, it can be said that the drafting of the District Council Bill where it itself was made a part of the executive and the involvement of it in the delimitation of the constituencies of the District Councils is against the principle laid down in the Constitution. The role of the HAC is limited to the scheduled matters as provided in Second Schedule of the Presidential orders which number 12 items and anything beyond is ultra vires of the Constitution.

Regarding the decentralization and location of institutions in the district headquarters, the demand is genuine and baby steps are being taken and this needs to be accelerated. However, for central government institutions, those making the decision on the location tend to prefer the central valley because of various conveniences. The location of IIIT and IGNTU in the Hills was after much persuasion by the then Chief Minister. This author interacted with the teams which selected location for CAU, NSU and NIT and when different locations were shown they always prefer Lamphelpat area. NIT is now at a disadvantage due to its location in Lamphelpat and it now rues as they have to spend substantial extra of fund for construction as the soil is mostly cotton soil!

Filling up the reserved seats is a simple administrative function and the government must ensure that such demand does not arise. But the monitoring by a secretariat under HAC is just not possible and it should be done by the department under the guidance of HAC, not directly but indirectly. The Minister concerned should be answerable to the House.

Budgeting is a complex matter especially in a state which has insufficient fund. There is already a mechanism for the HAC to examine and this should be done scrupulously. One fails to understand why there should be a separate land laws for the hill areas. One law can govern both hill and valley; with separate chapters provided for specific needs. Legislative drafting is a specialized branch and those doing it require proper training in the Parliament Secretariat. Just because one is a lawyer does not make him suitable for legislative drafting and HAC cannot takeover drafting of laws as its function though it can provide inputs.

All languages must be developed so that it does not vanish altogether and many tribal dialects are taught up to the higher level. Many tribal literature society receive funds from the Government and if need be, this can be increased. Imposition of a particular language is always counterproductive and a language will be learnt based on its utility. One can see this from the imposition of Hindi in the South. There is no specific allocation of ministerial positions community wise and it is for the political leaders who were elected to decide upon it. At present even among the Meitei, Thoubal has no representation as also Churachandpur.

There is no difference in the powers and duties assigned to the PRIs and ADCs, but it is a question of implementation. To make them function properly certain financial autonomy for the LSG must be put in place. The elected representatives of PRIs receive a small remuneration but it will be difficult for the VAs to receive it due to the very large number. It was earlier proposed that the ADC Act should be amended so that there is reservation for women and that Village authorities are also put within the ambit of this Act. The system of each village having its own VA is no longer suitable in the present era and some villages may be clubbed together to elect the representatives; and this would result in better administration especially among the small villages as it will do away with hegemony.

A village of 20 houses having its own VA is no longer suitable for development and this aspect need to be examined in detail for better development. The need for talks between the two communities in conflict is urgently needed and it is for the Central and state government to bring them to the negotiating table. Without talks, the crisis may never end. During the Government and if need be, this can be increased. Imposition of a particular language is always counterproductive and a language will be learnt based on its utility. One can see this from the imposition of Hindi in the South.

There is no specific allocation of ministerial positions community wise and it is for the political leaders who were elected to decide upon it. At present even among the Meitei, Thoubal has no representation as also Churachandpur. There is no difference in the powers and duties assigned to the PRIs and ADCs, but it is a question of implementation. To make them function properly certain financial autonomy for the LSG must be put in place. The elected representatives of PRIs receive a small remuneration but it will be difficult for the VAs to receive it due to the very large number. It was earlier proposed that the ADC Act should be amended so that there is reservation for women and that Village authorities are also put within the ambit of this Act.

The system of each village having its own VA is no longer suitable in the present era and some villages may be clubbed together to elect the representatives; and this would result in better administration especially among the small villages as it will do away with hegemony. A village of 20 houses having its own VA is no longer suitable for development and this aspect need to be examined in detail for better development.

The need for talks between the two communities in conflict is urgently needed and it is for the Central and state government to bring them to the negotiating table. Without talks, the crisis may never end. During the Naga-Kuki conflict, the #Meitei took the lead role in trying to bring an understanding between the two parties but in the present case, unfortunately there is none to take this lead.

It may be recalled that the #Meitei had not made demands which are specific to them alone. The demands for statehood, the removal of AFSPA, ILP, the demand for a university, medical college, technical university, etc. are not #Meitei centric but rather in the larger interest of the state.

Manipur had seen many demands but only those where violence had crept in succeed and it is for the government to ensure that violence is avoided and this can be done through talks. The tendency to use the NHs for making a demand is violence of a kind and we have seen blockade on the NHs in both the hills and the valleys. It is not only one community which resorts to violence to make their demands felt and all communities do it.

The missed call Campaign in connection with the ST demand of #Meitei is not against any community but within the #Meitei to prove that majority of the #Meitei support the ST demand as there are still some #Meitei who feel that #Meitei should not be included in the ST list for their own reasons. The so-called Meitei hegemony is more hype than a reality. Which CM ensures that the roads in Ukhrul headquarters are with side drains and who cause proper black topping? It is not the tribal CMs but a #Meitei CM. It is not the community to which the minister belongs that matters, but his desire to work for his people that matters, as once he becomes a minister he is not only for his constituency but for the whole state.

Article courtesy The People's Chronicle

#STStatusForMeitei #STStatusForMeetei #ScheduledTribeStatus #STRecommendation #Manipur @brijkishowr1986

[STDCM @stdcm_org]

29 village chiefs and chairmen from the Naga community have recently penned a letter to the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST). In this letter, they have raised serious allegations against the Kuki chiefs, accusing them of forging their (Naga's) signatures in their pursuit of a separate administration.

The Kuki chiefs supposedly added the forged signatures to a response they sent to the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) on September 12, 2023. The response supposedly came from '260 tribal village chairmen and chiefs', but this assertion has been discredited and dismissed by the 29 Naga chiefs. They have now urged the Commission to disregard the rejoinder.

The Kuki chiefs and chairmen have been accused of forging signatures by 29 Naga villages. These villages include Purum Likli Village, Kwarok Maring Village, Laisak Kom, Kharan (T) Village, Heinganglok Village, Kaprang Village, Lembakhul Village, Leishiphung Village, Phunal Maring Village, Island Village, Risophung Village, Lishamlok Village, Tombi Hangbu Village, Laikot Phaijol Village, Maibung Kom, Laikoiching Village, Tuisenphai Village, Sandang Senba Maring, Laipharok Maring Village, Purum Khullen Village, Thayong Village, Nungkok Kom Village, Ngarumphung Village, Nungsai Chiru Village, Waithou Chiru Village, Uran Chiru Village, Chini-kon Village, Sinam Kom, and Karpursungba Village.

The letter from the 29 village chiefs, directed to HR Meena, Research Officer at NCST, emphasized the need to dismiss and invalidate the entire rejoinder submitted by Naga settlers, village chiefs, and chairmen. The letter specifically highlighted that pages 1 to 150, which included replicated and scanned signatures, should be rejected and declared null and void by the NCST.

The 29 Naga village chiefs have expressed their concern regarding the misuse of copied scanned signatures of Naga village chiefs and chairmen from Kangpokpi, Chandel, and Churachandpur districts. They have accused a few Kuki village chairmen/chiefs of using these signatures to further their campaign for the creation of a separate administration called "Kuki Hills". However, the 29 chiefs have clarified that there is no such entity as "Kuki Hills" in Manipur and that the claims made about its existence are completely baseless.

The Naga chiefs expressed their strong disapproval and rejection of the malicious plan by a small group of Kuki village chairmen/chiefs, which undermines the rightful and inherent ownership of our land and our very existence. The Nagas, who have been the original inhabitants of these hill districts (Kangpokpi, Chandel, and Churachandpur), firmly condemn and dissociate themselves from this sinister agenda.

The Naga leaders have stated that the Kukis residing in certain areas of the Naga territories in Kangpokpi, Chandel, and Churachandpur districts of Manipur are migrants who lack inherent rights to assert ownership over the land they inhabit.

The Kukis, who arrived as undocumented immigrants many years ago, were granted settlement in the Nagas' territories. However, it is important to note that they do not have the right to assert ownership over the land. Merely possessing homestead land papers does not grant them the authority to claim ownership of the land that originally belonged to the Naga settlers. The Naga chiefs strongly condemn any such claims of land ownership.

Read the full News article from The Sangai Express @ https://t.co/S3SRCBaBo7

#STStatusForMeitei #STStatusForMeetei #ScheduledTribeStatus #STRecommendation #Manipur #SaveMeitei #SaveMeetei @brijkishowr1986

[STDCM @stdcm_org]

ISCOM Discussion Time : December 07, 2023 on Missed Call Campaign for Scheduled Tribe Listing of #Meitei/#Meetei community with Mutum Churamani, Secretary Administration - Meitei (Meetei) Tribe Union and Laishram Brijkishore, Joint Secretary - STDCM
#STStatusForMeitei #STStatusForMeetei #ScheduledTribeStatus #STRecommendation #Manipur #SaveMeitei #SaveMeetei @brijkishowr1986
Watch video @ https://t.co/Nm2zghTNz9