IMPHAL, April 9: A one day discussion on the topic `Peoples`™ Movement for Peace in the conflict situation of Manipur` was held today at the Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen, Hapta Kangjeibung organized by the Freedom Research Foundation under the sponsorship of The Freedom Manipur, Imphal.
Laishram Dhanabir, senior advocate Khaidem Mani, BB Sharma, Priyadarshani L Gangte, S. Lokendro, Chinglen Meisnam, Dr T Hemo and RK Rajendro spoke at the the discussion as resource persons.
Laishram Dhanabir in his speech said that even as the peace talk between the Government of India and the NSCN-IM has been going on for over a decade there is no solution in sight. The reason behind this could be the lack of a proper planning on the part of NSCN-IM, he observed.
Citing the Indo-Naga talks which has been going on for more than a decade, he further stated that instead of having talks which could stretch on for more than 10 years, the people of the state should utilize that many years in formulating a concrete roadmap which could help in introducing the process of plebiscite in the state.
He further stressed on the need to first usher in peace in the state before the actual process of plebiscite begins, which he maintained could be the proper roadmap to a successful introduction of plebiscite.
He also added that the new current diplomatic bonding between New Delhi and Washington may act as a spanner in garnering support for plebiscite from the United Nation.
BB Sharma, a retired deputy director of AIR while stressing on the need of all sections of the society including all militant groups, civil society organizations, the entire communities settling in the state etc to unite as one, further observed that without unity, peace which should be the primary concern of the people at the moment will always elude from the state.
Khaidem Mani, while speaking at the discussion lamented that the term respect is missing from the society today. The common people have become like a collapsed patient due to the prevailing turmoil in the state.
He further asserted that even UGs have no pity for the common people and instead are concentrating on monetary gains.
The senior Advocate also maintained that the need of the hour is participation from all section of the society with conviction and not mere participation.
He further queried upon the need of plebiscite in the state when there is no respect for one another in the state.
Bombarding an explosive salvo against the much maligned Indian army the senior advocate observed tellingly that despite India raising the strongest and largest army in the world, a chink in its armor has been exposed with the incapability to function in the Northeast region and Jammu and Kashmir without the legal immunity sanctioned by an archaic army law Armed Forces Special Power Act.
Before the demand for plebiscite or sovereignty, there is a need to start political dialogue without any precondition which may be later co-opted by a process for plebiscite or sovereignty, he added.
Leaders of the various civil organizations, students`™ bodies and eminent faces of the state also participated in the discussion.