Jiribam, February 26: In a significant development with administrative and regional implications, the Scheduled Tribes (ST) representatives of thirteen tribal villages in Jiribam district have unanimously resolved to seek the immediate amalgamation of their areas with Pherzawl district, Manipur.
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| Map of Manipur. (Image Credit: CEO Manipur |
In a formal declaration submitted to the Government of Manipur, the village chiefs stated that they, along with the residents of their respective villages, have given their full consent to come under the administrative jurisdiction of Pherzawl district. They asserted that their villages have historically been an integral part of the area now constituting Pherzawl and expressed their unwillingness to continue under the administration of Jiribam district.
According to the declaration, the chiefs maintained that, "since time immemorial," the tribal areas they represent have been closely associated with Pherzawl in terms of geography, history, and community ties. They said the proposed administrative realignment would better reflect the traditional and socio-cultural identity of the tribal communities living in the region.
To support their demand, the signatories have attached a sketch map identifying the Scheduled Tribe areas proposed to be brought under the jurisdiction of Pherzawl district. They have urged the State Government to examine the proposal and take necessary administrative steps to implement the requested merger at the earliest.
The declaration was signed by Paul Rozarlien Hmar, Lalsanhim Hmar, Gina Hmar, L. Thanmawi Pajamte Hmar, Blessing Hmar, Joel Hmar, Thangliensang Hmar, Lalchunghnung Hmar, Khamzamang Duhlian, Lamgin Haokip, Demkholun Haokip, Satkhawlam Hmar, along with representatives of the participating tribal villages.
The resolution has also been endorsed and countersigned by the Indigenous Tribal Advocacy Committee (ITAC). ITAC Chairman Upa Hranglienkhum Keivom and Secretary Hrilhmingthang Buhril affirmed the resolution, stating that the demand reflects the collective will and aspirations of the affected tribal communities.
The chiefs have appealed to the Government of Manipur to give due consideration to their request and initiate the necessary administrative process for the proposed transfer of the tribal areas from Jiribam district to Pherzawl district.
