DEVELOPMENT DEFICIT | Dissatisfied with Quantum of Autonomy

(TRVM) | Chief Moderator Desk ✍| April 19, 2016)

Are Manipur tribals beasts or human being? Constitutionally, they do not receive human treatment. The constitution they received today seems the worst of its kind compared to the rest of Indian tribal. They are victims of circumstances or systematic alienation. District level elected local bodies have been superseded or allowed to lapse, with interim measures continuing for decades. Quest for political solution! They don’t need ad-hoc solution. Mini-state, mini-assembly, mini-Constitution within the main Constitution will served the crying needs of Manipur Tribal.

 

Power formation between HAC and ADC are vague, there could be a clash of interest in the two functions. There is no mechanism to coordinate between the ADCs and HAC in power formation. There is an urgency to fulfill the need and aspiration and protect the tribal people from economic, political exploitation and stagnation for generations yet to come.

To break the deadlock, the Union Government will have to take the initiative by exercising its special power, under Article 371C, to give directions to the state on the matter as the matter falls squarely within the Union’s authority and power. The creation of Telangana State shows, among others, that when the Centre is hell bent on doing something, nothing stands on the way. Sixth Schedule provisions under the Indian Constitution will help address the demand for Autonomy. The present ADC is ‘a bone without flesh’ or 'toothless'. 

"Political Integration alone is not enough. Integration should be accompanied by suitable government measures to consolidate it. The case of Manipur is a clear example of the failure of the government on this account." The basic aspirations of the people are speedy development, land protection, better standard of living and a sense of belongingness through effective participation in their own administration. The people witness the most painful period of neglect and exploitation. It’s the saddest period and the darkest hour in the annals of tribal history.

Very little of development funds percolates down to the people in the form of developmental measures and tangible benefits while the central government has been pouring large amount of money. Everybody knows about this fact but nobody has the courage to defend themselves where bribery and power from the barrel of gun ruled the roost. The demand and previous attempt on 6th Schedue failed due to which the issue is left to the vagaries of politics and ethnic power play.

And this time, it is all about do or die, survive or perish! It is a Hobson’s choice!! Arise! Awake!

TRVM|CMD-01

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Gin-om in,

Moderator-Secretary, Tribal Rights Vigil, Manipur (TRVM)
Contact number: 07503748131