NEW DELHI, July 30: The Republican Party of India (Athawale) National Secretary, Maheswar Thounaojam, has renewed the demand for granting Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the Meitei community during a crucial meeting with Union Minister of Tribal Affairs, Jual Oram, in the national capital on Wednesday.
Thounaojam submitted a comprehensive dossier comprising historical records, policy reports, and socio-anthropological data to support the Meitei community’s inclusion in the ST list under the Constitution of India. He emphasized that this recognition is vital for restoring the community’s constitutional status and safeguarding their rights, land, and cultural identity.
“I had a productive meeting with Union Minister of Tribal Affairs, Shri Jual Oram. I presented comprehensive data and reports advocating for the restoration of Meetei/Meitei in the Scheduled Tribes list,” Thounaojam stated in a post on X.
He stressed the urgency of the matter and called on the central government to act decisively using its legislative and executive authority. According to Thounaojam, Minister Oram responded with empathy and assured him of support, stating that he would deliberate further with his ministry to explore viable solutions.
The demand for ST status for the Meitei community has been a longstanding issue, with advocates citing historical marginalization, loss of ancestral lands, and the need for greater protection and development opportunities. Various civil society groups and political leaders from Manipur have also raised similar demands in the past.
