IT News
Imphal, Aug 28:
The United Peoples Front (UPF), Manipur, celebrated its 26th Foundation Day at the Manipur Press Club in Imphal, marking over two decades of civic engagement and advocacy. Advocate Laishangbam Jadumani, Advisor to UPF, served as the resource person for the event, which highlighted the significant role of civil society organizations (CSOs) in addressing contemporary challenges in Manipur.
Formed in 1998 by a group of like-minded youths at Singjamei Leishangthem Leikai, the UPF has been at the forefront of various social and political movements in the state. During his address, Advocate Jadumani emphasized the critical role of CSOs like UPF, NIPCO, AMKIL, Nupi Samaj, Echal, Macha Leima, UCM, and Cocomi in reflecting and addressing societal needs. He particularly praised the Nisaband Emas movement by Nupi Samaj, which has been instrumental in combating substance abuse and domestic violence.
Advocate Jadumani also critiqued the Indian government’s imposition of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), initially intended to counter insurgency but widely opposed by civil society, including the Emas of Nupi Samaj, who protested against its misuse in the 1980s. He reflected on the formation of the United Committee Manipur (UCM) in response to threats to Manipur’s territorial integrity and the subsequent establishment of Cocomi, supported by sixty-five civil society organizations, to address specific state issues.
He highlighted the importance of youth, women, and Emas in driving political movements, stressing that CSOs are not meant to create crises but to address societal issues and foster peace. He recalled the public outcry and protests against AFSPA following the tragic case of Thangjam Manorama, which galvanized civil society against the act’s misuse.
Addressing the ongoing Meitei-Kuki conflict, Advocate Jadumani spoke on Cocomi’s stance against Kuki narco-terrorists, following a people’s convention, due to the violence and destruction affecting innocent civilians. He underscored the necessity for CSOs to accurately gauge public sentiment and effectively mediate between insurgents, the government, and the populace.
Advocate Jadumani urged CSOs to remain steadfast in their primary objective of promoting peace and resolving the current crisis. He cautioned that failure to do so could have detrimental long-term effects on society.
The event underscored UPF’s enduring commitment to unity and progress in Manipur, with a focus on the vital role of civil society amid the ongoing regional crisis. The gathering saw participation from prominent CSO leaders, including UPF President Nongthongbam Rupachandra, NIPCO President Oinam Premjit, Mapi Council President KC Romio, CADA President Hijam Priyokumar, and AMPFA President Konthoujam Thoiba, who served as Presidium members.
