PRESS STATEMENT
Dated Tahamzam, 28th April, 2013
We are constrained to place again on record the inaction and the communal response of the Government of Manipur(GoM) to the continued captivity of Ms. Alice Kamei, a 14 year old tribal school girl in the hands of Revolutionary Peoples Front/Peoples Liberation Army(RPF/PLA) since 10th March, 2013.
In blatant collusion with the militant group, the GoM has gone to the extent of absolving itself of its responsibilities of securing the release and safety of the girl child custody by stating that Ms Alice had joined the RPF/PLA on her own volition. By doing so, the GoM has accepted the captivity of Ms. Alice by the militant group as a normal thing. Instead of upholding the Constitution, the GoM has heaped the responsibility upon the volition of the underaged girl. It is clear that the GoM does not function under the Constitution nor with any rule of law.
We reiterate that the Government of India(GoI) must intervene immediately and vindicate its position as the custodian of the Constitution. Should the GoI also fail to intervene with action, it will be responsible for any eventuality that may arise out of this situation. The United Naga Council will not remain a silent spectator and shall be compelled to take up its own course of action should the captivity of Ms Alice be allowed to continue.
We also appeal to the Zeliangrong Youth Front(AMN), the All Zeliangrong Students’ Union(AMN) and the Zeliangrong Students’ Union Manipur to review its decision on the indefinite bandh in view of the hardship faced by the general public and in anticipation of the intervention of the GoI in the matter.
Publicity Wing
United Naga Council