Manipur: ANSAM Issues Ultimatum to Manipur Government Over Unmet Demands

IMPHAL: In a recent statement, the All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM), has firmly set November 27, 2023, as the deadline for the state government to honor its commitments regarding the demands put forth by the Naga student body. ANSAM emphasized its concern for the grievances expressed by the people in the "peace areas" of Manipur, unaffected by ongoing violence.

The primary demands include the restoration of internet connectivity in all "peace areas," particularly in "Naga areas," unaffected by violence, and the declaration of results for the long-pending 190 assistant professor posts. The Naga student body referred to a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) signed on October 26, 2023, between ANSAM and the Government of Manipur. The association expressed dissatisfaction with the government's failure to fulfill promises, specifically regarding the assistant professor recruitment results and partial internet restoration.

The Naga student body revealed that the interview process for the 190 assistant professor posts was completed in November 2021, as stated in a letter from the Director of Higher Education dated November 25, 2021. ANSAM highlighted that despite seeking approval for result declaration from the Department of Personnel more than two years ago, the results have been deliberately withheld, depriving candidates of their fundamental rights.

The economic blockade initiated by the Naga student body as a response to the government's perceived defiance of agreements was temporarily suspended following assurances from Minister Awangbow Newmai. However, ANSAM asserts that the government has not met the agreed-upon deadline for result declaration and internet restoration, leading to renewed tensions.

ANSAM criticized the government's inactivity in declaring the assistant professor results, considering it a mockery of their commitment to the betterment of the Higher Education sector. The association labeled the government's failure to restore internet connectivity in "peace areas" as a blatant lie and a negation of welfare principles. ANSAM accused the state representative of betraying the apex Naga students' body.

Expressing disappointment, ANSAM announced its decision to launch various forms of agitation starting from November 27, 2023, if the government fails to meet their demands. The association firmly stated that the state government would be held responsible for any unwanted incidents during the course of the planned agitation.

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