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In an effort to draw international attention to the ongoing turmoil in Manipur, members of the Meitei Diaspora in Europe gathered for a sit-in protest at the United Nations headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. Organized by Khuraijam Athouba, Vice-President of the International Peace and Social Advancement (IPSA) and spokesperson for the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), this protest saw the participation of numerous Meitei Diaspora representatives hailing from various parts of Europe, the United Kingdom, and Ireland.
Prominent speakers and delegates from the Meitei Diaspora across Europe addressed critical issues surrounding the Manipur crisis and the growing concerns related to Chin-Kuki Narco-Terrorism, which has plagued the southern regions of Manipur, allegedly turning it into a hub for the infamous Golden Triangle. This article delves into the key points and implications of the Meitei Diaspora’s protest at the United Nations in Geneva.
Background
Manipur, a state in northeastern India, has been marred by ethnic tensions and violence for several months. The state’s complex demographics include the Meitei, Kuki, and Naga communities, among others. The ongoing crisis has claimed numerous lives and displaced thousands, demanding the attention of both Indian authorities and the international community.
Protest at the United Nations in Geneva
The protest organized by Khuraijam Athouba at the United Nations Manifest Ground, located near the iconic Broken Chair in Geneva, aimed to shed light on the volatile situation in Manipur. Khuraijam Athouba, known for his relentless campaign for Manipur’s integrity, spearheaded this event with the support of the Meitei Diaspora.
Participants and Delegates
The event witnessed participation from members of the Meitei Diaspora residing in different parts of Europe, the United Kingdom, and Ireland. These individuals, driven by their concern for the Manipur crisis, joined forces to address the international community and seek assistance in resolving the ongoing turmoil.
Key Speakers and Issues Discussed
Several key speakers and delegates representing the Meitei Diaspora took the stage to discuss critical issues related to Manipur and the broader implications of the crisis. The following are some of the noteworthy points raised during the protest:
Khuraijam Athouba – Vice-President of IPSA and COCOMI Spokesperson
Khuraijam Athouba, a prominent figure in the campaign for Manipur’s integrity, addressed the gathering. He highlighted the urgent need to address the Manipur Violence and the escalating problem of Chin-Kuki Narco-Terrorism. Athouba emphasized that these issues had transformed the southern regions of Manipur into a hotspot within the notorious Golden Triangle—a region notorious for its illicit drug trade.
Sagolsem Biramani – President of the European Manipuri Association (EMA)
Sagolsem Biramani, the President of the European Manipuri Association (EMA), brought attention to the complexities of the Manipur crisis. He stressed the importance of fostering unity among the various communities in the state and urged for international intervention to restore peace and stability.
Okram Bishwajit Singh – Member of EMA
Okram Bishwajit Singh, a member of EMA, shared insights into the diaspora’s efforts to raise awareness about the Manipur crisis. He underscored the role of international organizations, governments, and individuals in contributing to a peaceful resolution.
Yaikhomba Sagolshem – Meitei Student Based in London
Yaikhomba Sagolshem, a Meitei student residing in London, discussed the distressing images circulating on social media concerning the tragic incidents involving Meitei students Linthoingambi and Hemanjit. These images have further fueled the urgency for international attention to address the crisis.
Delegation’s Visit to the United Nations Campus
Following the protest, a seven-member delegation led by Khuraijam Athouba visited the United Nations campus in Geneva. This visit coincided with the 54th Session of the Human Rights Council, a crucial platform for discussing human rights issues on a global scale.
During their visit, the delegation distributed informative pamphlets and brochures that provided insights into the ongoing Manipur Violence, the menace of Chin-Kuki Narco-Terrorism, and the emergence of the Golden Triangle within Manipur. These materials aimed to educate the international community and UN delegates about the gravity of the situation in Manipur.
Next Steps: Fact-Finding Report and Engagement with UN Forums
Khuraijam Athouba and his team have ambitious plans to further their cause on the international stage. They intend to submit a comprehensive fact-finding report that addresses the pressing issues surrounding Manipur, including violence, narco-terrorism, and the emergence of the Golden Triangle, to various forums within the United Nations. This proactive approach
