Manipur MP stresses on unity to foil divisive forces

IMPHAL, 17 Jan 2013 [SANGAI EXPRESS] --- Outer Manipur Parliamentary Constituency MP Thangso Baite has affirmed that no forces inimical to the State's territorial and emotional integrity would be successful in distorting Manipur's history in case the people remain united. Speaking as the chief guest during the inaugural session of the four-day Biennial Conference cum Gospel Olympic at Chingphei village under Ukhrul district today, the MP emphasised that peaceful co-existence of all the ethnic people is an important element in safeguarding Manipur's integrity and interest. Asserting that Manipur's territorial integrity should never be compromised and urging the indigenous people to sustain the age-old relationships, Thangso pointed out that every community need to contribute their mite in protecting integrity and interest of Manipur. Disturbance, if any, to Manipur's territorial integrity will not lead to disintegration of the multi-ethnic societal composition but also pose threat to the Church organisation, expressed the MP while highlighting that youth of the society need to take positive and leading role to preserve Manipur's history. Expressing elation that the four-day event, held amid uncertain socio-political environment, would provide opportunity to the participants to share their respective views and enjoy the moment without any tension, he also called upon all concerned to promote fraternal bond rather than adopt confrontationist postures. Later, when newspersons sought his comment on possibility of a solution to the Naga political issue before the Nagaland State assembly election, Thangso Baite said that chances of a positive outcome is unlikely as reaching an amicable solution would be very difficult before election conduct of conduct comes into effect. Dismissing accusation from certain section with regard to siphoning off of tribal development funds, he reminded that till date the post of Tribal Affairs and Hills is being held by a tribal representative. It is most unlikely that a tribal representative would permit diversion of tribal development fund to any other sector, opined the MP. The inauguration programme was also attended by MDC members. The four-day event organised by Eastern Manipur Presbytery Youth Fellowship Manipur Synod is being participated by about 700 youths.