MARGAO
A group of citizens under the banner of Alliance for Justice and Harmony (AJH) has expressed grave concern at the situation in Manipur and called for urgent intervention by the Centre in forging peace and reconciliation in the state.
Braving heavy rains, the citizens assembled at the historic Lohia Maidan to call on the central government to immediately enact President’s Rule in Manipur, saying the Centre should end the chaos, killings, and displacement.
AJH has also urged the government to create a “Truth and reconciliation Committee” consisting of retired government officials, eminent civil society leaders, and Religious Heads to work on a long-term reconciliation program so that the pluralism of Manipur can be protected.
It was further demanded that peace-keeping/security forces should be deployed in the state for the safety of the people until there is stability.
The organization has further called for rehabilitation, saying the centre should create mechanisms for the rehabilitation of all injured and displaced, pay compensations to families who have lost fathers, mothers, and children.
AJH has further called upon the central government to put in place legislative measures so that people of all tribes are treated without discrimination.
“Justice should be served to the victims of violence by holding the perpetrators accountable for their action,” the citizens further demanded.
The meeting was moderated by Joan Rebello, while activists Ramkrishna Jalmi, Cruz Cardozo, Eulalia Dmello, and Lumina Almeida addressed the gathering.
“Manipur today resembles a war zone. For over two months since May 3, 2023 the State has been up in flames. The violence which erupted then now counts more than 100 people dead; and more than 500 others left wounded. The chaos and the destruction have affected thousands of men, women, and children with the potential to multiply and swell unless the conflict is contained fairly. An estimated 50 thousand displaced people live in squalor in about 349 relief camps. They require rehabilitation to be treated in a humane and just way. Essentials like food and medicine are inadequate and should be urgently supplied,” Prof. Rebello stated.
