IMPHAL, September 1: The State government has reiterated that The Protection of Manipur Peoples`™ Bill 2015, Manipur Land Revenue & Land Records (seventh Amendment) 2015and the Manipur Shop & Establishment (Second Amendment) Bill, 2015 do not infringe on the existing rights of the tribal community settled in the state of Manipur and also do not impinges on the provision of Article 371 C.
The State government has also appealed to all stakeholders that any differences may be discussed and settled across the table.
The State cabinet today convened an emergency meeting following the present unrest in the Hill districts especially in Churachandpur following the passing of three bills.
According to an official statement issued by the secretary to the State Chief Minister N Ashok Kumar, the State cabinet, in its emergency meeting held today chaired by the Chief Minister and subsequent meeting with Hill Area Committee, has reviewed the present law and order situation arising out of the violent incidents leading to arson and destruction of residences of ministers and Members of the Manipur Legislative Assembly in hill areas which also led to the death of seven persons.
The agitation has been launched against the passing of the three bills by the Manipur Legislative Assembly on August 31, in a special sitting, on the perception that these bills are anti tribal and violates the provision of Article 371 C and the Manipur State Hill People Regulation, 1947, it said.
The statement said it is to clarify that these three bills do not infringe on the existing rights of the tribal community settled in the state of Manipur and also do not impinges on the provision of Article 371 C and the subsequent Presidential order of 1972 which provides for Scheduled areas and matters as also the Manipur State Hill People Regulation, 1947.
It is also clarified that the present amendment of MLR&LR Act which was passed in the Assembly does not extend to the Hill areas and in no way will affect or alter the present status of Tribal land.
The official statement said that there seems to be misinterpretation and misunderstanding of the provisions of the bills leading to the tragic incidents of yesterday and today causing tremendous losses including human lives.
It said the State Government appeals to all section of the society to maintain peace and calm in the state of Manipur and any differences may be discussed and settled across the table. Manipur deserves peace and tranquillity for its people, especially the children and youth.
`It is requested to all stakeholders to come forward for discussion with government to bring a solution to the present situation prevailing in the State.`