LAMKA, September 11: Leaders and representatives of the ZRO and HPC (D) which are constituent bodies UPF, SoO signatory called a joint press conference at the PTC Hall stating that the outfits support the demand for a separate administration for the tribal areas of the State.
The conference, called late in the afternoon, was attended by external secretary ZRO H Calvin Khenthang and defence secretary of HPC (D) Puiaa.
Speaking at the conference, Calvin said the UPF had signed the SoO in 2008 when Congress was in power in the Centre and in the State; however, there has been no solution to the issue.
He said however, with the coming of the NDA in the Centre some change has been observed.
Calvin flanked by Puii also talked about the `Political Revival` that has been witnessed in the State`™s tribal belt and said it is a significant development and the UPF as well as the KNO endorse the movement.
He continued the UPF and the KNO support and had always wanted unity among the tribals although the different tribes use different terms like `Alternative Arrangement`, `Kuki State` or `Autonomous Hill State` which are all the same with a common goal.
They also stressed that the Centre will ultimately take a decision as it is the father of the people. They also hoped that something positive will come out soon for the hills and the tribals of Manipur.
This is the right and appropriate time for the tribals to unite and seek separate administration, he continued.
He continued minor problems and differences of opinion may arise but unity and common goal will triumph in the end.
Meanwhile, the info and publicity of the Joint Action Committee (JAC) which has been christened now as the `JAC against the anti-tribal bills` today issued a press release saying that in the general interest, the bandh on movement will be relaxed from 5 am to 10 am after which bandh will be effected and further asked the womenfolk, volunteers to continue with their peaceful sit in protest/ dharna till further order.