Ukhrul: Justice Utpalendu Bikas Saha, Chairperson of the Manipur Human Rights Commission (MHRC), made his maiden visit to Ukhrul district on Tuesday and chaired a meeting with District Level Officers (DLOs) and civil society organisations (CSOs).
Ukhrul Deputy Commissioner Kengoo Zuringla and Superintendent of Police Karthik Malladi were also present during the meeting, which was held at the conference hall of the DC office.
The meeting addressed various issues, including the ongoing communal crisis in the state, lack of basic amenities, and FMR along the Indo-Myanmar border.
Justice Saha remarked that the Naga community has maintained neutrality in the current conflict and could play a crucial role in resolving the crisis. He emphasised that both the Naga community in general and the Tangkhuls in particular must take a leading role in reconciling the conflicting parties.
Justice Saha asserted that the Tangkhul community, with its traditional ties to both the Meitei and Kuki communities, is well-positioned to facilitate dialogue and bridge misunderstandings between the warring groups. He stressed that ethnic conflict cannot continue indefinitely and urged the Tangkhul community to lead efforts to restore normalcy and promote development in the state.
“Without peace, the state cannot progress or develop, and the districts will continue to face the same problems,” Justice Saha said.
During the visit, Justice Saha also sought to understand whether human rights are being upheld and if state schemes are benefiting the community. He highlighted concerns over the shortage of medical practitioners at the district hospital, stating that occasional visits by doctors do not fulfill their duty.
“Right to life has to be protected and the poor people should be provided the benefits of the government schemes connecting with the human rights,” Saha emphasised.
Additionally, he noted that Manipur has the potential to become a major tourist destination, which could generate substantial income. However, prolonged conflict must be resolved to enable progress.
Tangkhul Shanao Long (TSL) President Thingreiphy Lungharwo informed Justice Saha about the law and order situation in the district, raising concerns about the impact of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) on mental well-being, despite Ukhrul being relatively peaceful. She also expressed concerns about the proliferation of check posts by the Assam Rifles and the presence of landmines in border areas, which endanger local villagers.
Lungharwo also highlighted issues related to the Right to Education, healthcare, water problems, and basic rights.
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Acknowledging the concerns raised, Justice Saha assured that he would recommend these matters to the state government for addressing public demands.
Later, Justice Saha and his team inspected the District Hospital Ukhrul at Hungpung, interacting with patients and hospital officials to gather firsthand information about the healthcare services in the hill district.
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