~ T. Zamlunmang Zou @ Pupu Zou
Election is the root to all power and development, also the root of all evils and hatrates.
The proposed Village Authority election in the hill districts of Manipur has drawn a mix-bag of responses as it caused a degree of resentment within certain sections of the society while it induce others to gladly accept it.
Almost all Chiefs association from the Kuki community has raised objection to holding the election which they believe will eventually end-up in eliminating the chieftainship – that was followed for ages in the long run. The Zomi Council on the other hand contrasted the view and publicly endorsed the government’s initiative on the ground that it will root-out the present practice of nominating an individual’s choice. (TSE)
On the other hand, The Naga Chiefs Association (NCA), Chandel has conveyed firm opposition to Village Authority Election, 2012 in Naga villages. This was decided during a meeting of all Naga chiefs which was held on October 17 at Maha Area Chiefs’ Association office, said a statement issued by NCA, Chandel. The meeting also decided to impose a fine of Rs 5 lakh to any village that violates the resolution adopted by the village chiefs in this regard. Stating that the Naga Village Authority system has its unique traditional style and function which even the Government of India recognised, the NCA statement added that it cannot be influenced and dictated by any outside force. (TSE)
