IT News
Imphal, July 4:
The Meetei Tribe Union (MTU) has expressed concerns about the lack of land titles for many Meetei households in Manipur, particularly those who have lived on their land for over 60 to 70 years. In a statement issued by Haobam Surjit Meetei, Convener of the Youth Wing of MMTU, the organization questioned why the government, despite being aware of these long-standing settlements, has not issued land titles to these residents.
The Revenue and Settlement Department, responsible for land records, has failed to address these issues adequately, according to the MTU. The organization accuses the department of not recognizing the historical significance and rightful claims of the Meetei people. The MTU argues that this oversight has led to many Meetei people being excluded from various government schemes, benefits, and loans that require proof of land ownership.
Additionally, the MTU points out that in other Indian states, such as Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Kerala, governments have issued land titles to residents. They cite Assam as an example where Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Chief Minister have implemented policies to provide land titles, benefiting many residents there.
The MTU calls for immediate reforms in the MLR & LR Act 1960 to ensure that Meetei families receive land titles. The MTU stresses that under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, every citizen has the right to livelihood and shelter. The Supreme Court has ruled that people living on government land or other areas for a long time should not be evicted without alternative arrangements. The MTU calls for a similar approach in Manipur.
The organization also highlights the current tensions in the region, with illegal immigrants and conflict with the Kuki community over land claims. They urged the Forest and Revenue Departments to address these issues transparently and justly.
In light of these challenges, the MTU urges the government to take immediate action. They call for a clear policy to issue land titles to long-term Meetei residents and for the inclusion of the Meetei/Meitei in the Scheduled Tribe list. The MTU believes that these steps are crucial for ensuring the rights and welfare of the Meetei community.