IMPHAL, August 1: Even as people believe that the Manipuri society has developed, the rapid increase in the number of crimes against women and children especially rape says otherwise, said Tongbram (o) Ibemcha Leima, president, Ereibak Enaat Chanura Loinsinlon (EECHAL).
She was addressing the 8th foundation day observation of EECHAL at Manipur Press Club today.
Women have always contributed for the welfare and development of the society and is entitled to some respect, she said while adding that only encouraging respect of woman in the society will help bring down the number of crimes against women.
EECHAL was established to showcase the beauty of the traditions of the Manipuri society and guide it.
Mutuwa Bahadur, Director, Mutuwa Museum as the chief guest of the function said that the wearing of “Phanek” by the girl students in schools and colleges has encouraged the traditions of the society.
He elaborated that the impact of wearing “Phanek” by the girl students is not only to cultivate the culture and tradition of the state but also to develop the economic condition of the weavers but most of the students didn’t depend on the local made “Phanek” and tend to go for the wrapper which is imported from outside the state.
The act of depending towards imported wrapper is adversely affecting the economic system of the state, he said.
Phanjoubam Shakhi, All Manipur Khunai Kanba Lup (AMKIL) said many organisations of the state has raised their voice demanding fulfillment of the rights of the people and repeal of AFSPA with Irom CHanu Sharmila on fast for the past 12 years but the government has remained as mute spectators.
Addressing at the function Y Nabachandra, president, United Committee Manipur lauded the works taken up by EECHAL to protect the tradition and culture of the Manipuri society.