The Committee on Protection and Preservation of Mt Koubru announced immediate closure of all entry points to Mt Koubru until the state government gives a response as to why the surveying of Mt Koubru is continued in spite of submission of formal objections to the state government.
The decision has the mandate of Sadar Hills Chiefs' Association (SAHILCA), Kuki Inpi and civil bodies of Kangpokpi which took part in a meeting held on Saturday at Saitu village in Saitu Gamphazol Sub Division of Kangpokpi at the residence of Saitu chief.
According to SAHILCA general secretary Paotong Doungel, the meeting was held in view of the current political issues and various government Acts, especially those that seek to undermine the tribal rights and safeguards.
In the meeting, Sadar Hills Chiefs' Association declared endorsement of Kuki Inpi's resolutions adopted in its general assembly otherwise known as 'Kumbul Kithin' at Hengbung village on January 18, 2021.
The assembly resolved that all land records of the district that are yet to be handed over to DC Kangpokpi should be returned as soon as possible and that Kuki Inpi Kangpokpi and its civil bodies will take all steps necessary to make it happen as the same had already been ordered by the state government as well.
In the joint meeting at Saitu, the Kuki Inpi Kangpokpi was assigned to immediately halt all forms of unsustainable modes river excavation by use of excavating machineries such as JCB or tippers and Dozers.
It was resolved that no individual or company will be allowed to continue their excavation from the Gundung river with immediate effect. However, Kuki Inpi Kangpokpi allows sand mining to all local uses.
It was also resolved in the meeting that no towns or villages in Kangpokpi district shall discard wastes in the streams or rivers while maximum penalty shall be levied upon defaulters by the concerned chief or town committee chairman.
It further resolved that all district MLAs of Saikul, Saitu and Kangpokpi assembly constituency shall work together with Kuki Inpi and district civil bodies in their charter of demands for empowering the district and SAHILCA to provide all means necessary in the democratic struggle.
The meeting was the first of its kind after a tribe-based representation was introduced in the formation and functioning of Kuki Inpi Kangpokpi and KSO Sadar Hills.
It was attended by the Sadar Hills Chiefs' Association, the block-level village chiefs, Kuki Inpi, Kuki Students' Organisation, Kuki Women Union, Thadou Youth Association, Zillai, Gangte Students' Organisation and Committee on Protection and Preservation of Mt Koubru, etc.
Pastor Khuptinlal Hangshing invoked blessings and prayers for the Kuki Inpi and civil voluntary organisations of the district.
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