Full Article: The Meetei/Meitei Tribe Union’s Fight for ST Inclusion

The Meetei/Meitei Tribe Union (MMTU) has long been vocal in their efforts to secure Scheduled Tribe (ST) status under the Indian Constitution. This community, which boasts a rich cultural and historical background, feels that it is high time they are recognized under the ST category. To this end, the MMTU submitted a detailed memorandum to the National Commission for Minorities (NCM), urging the government to prioritize their inclusion.

Why is ST Status Important for the Meetei/Meitei?

Scheduled Tribe status in India is more than just a label. It carries with it various socio-economic benefits, including educational reservations, government job quotas, and special protection under the law. For the Meetei/Meitei community, gaining ST status would not only grant them these privileges but also provide official recognition of their unique heritage and culture.

Despite their strong historical presence in the northeastern state of Manipur, the Meetei/Meitei have often been left out of such frameworks. Other ethnic communities in the region, such as the Kuki, have long enjoyed ST status. This omission has been a point of contention and has led to growing discontent within the Meetei community, prompting them to pursue legal recognition.

The Nationwide Campaign for Inclusion

On September 18, 2024, as part of their wider campaign, representatives from the MMTU submitted their memorandum to key figures. Among those present were Iqbal Singh Lalpura, chairman of the National Commission for Minorities, Girish Jah, Northeast in-charge of the All India Congress Committee (AICC), and social activist Rami Niranjan Desai.

The MMTU has been advocating for inclusion in the ST list for quite some time, but this meeting marked a significant step in formalizing their demands. Lalpura acknowledged the importance of the issue and instructed his secretary to draft a detailed report that would be submitted to relevant authorities. This indicates a promising step forward for the cause, but the journey is far from over.

What Does the Memorandum Entail?

The memorandum submitted by the MMTU delves into a variety of issues. Primarily, it emphasizes the socio-cultural and economic challenges faced by the Meetei/Meitei community, particularly in comparison to other groups that have already been granted ST status. It also calls for an ethnographic study of the community to provide a clear basis for their inclusion.

The memorandum includes evidence of the community’s distinct historical identity, along with references to government documents that support their inclusion. Additionally, it highlights the potential benefits that ST status would bring to the community, including access to educational scholarships, job reservations, and constitutional protections.

Key Support from Activists and Politicians

Social activist Rami Niranjan Desai has strongly supported the Meetei/Meitei’s cause, stating that their demand for inclusion in the ST list is a basic right. Desai has voiced concern over the challenges faced by the community and stated that no other ethnic group should hinder their progress.

Furthermore, the MMTU has garnered political support. Girish Jah, an influential figure in northeastern Indian politics, has committed to facilitating a meeting between the MMTU and Mallikarjun Kharge, the president of the AICC. This political endorsement adds significant weight to the MMTU’s demands, especially as they continue to push for tangible action from the Indian government.

Previous Efforts and the Road Ahead

This is not the first time the Meetei/Meitei community has pushed for inclusion in the ST list. Over the years, they have launched numerous campaigns, held meetings with various political leaders, and even staged protests. However, the lack of concrete action from the government has made their struggle an ongoing one.

Despite these setbacks, the recent developments offer a glimmer of hope. The fact that the National Commission for Minorities has taken note of their demands and committed to drafting a report signifies that the community’s concerns are being taken seriously at the highest levels.

However, the process of securing ST status is a long one. It involves multiple stages, including a comprehensive ethnographic study, socio-economic assessments, and approval from both state and central government authorities. While the support of activists and politicians is crucial, the MMTU is fully aware that they still have a long way to go.

What’s at Stake for the Meetei/Meitei?

At the heart of this campaign lies the question of identity. For the Meetei/Meitei, being recognized as a Scheduled Tribe is not just about accessing government benefits. It’s about affirming their unique cultural and historical identity in a country that prides itself on its diversity.

The Meetei/Meitei have a rich history that dates back centuries. They are known for their unique traditions, language, and customs, all of which have been preserved over time. However, the lack of official recognition has made it difficult for the community to safeguard these cultural treasures for future generations.

In addition to cultural preservation, ST status would offer the community significant legal protections. In India, many Scheduled Tribes are located in sensitive border areas and often face issues such as displacement, land alienation, and loss of traditional livelihoods. Gaining ST status would help shield the Meetei/Meitei from such vulnerabilities and provide them with the legal backing to protect their land, resources, and heritage.

The Role of the National Commission for Minorities

The National Commission for Minorities (NCM) is a crucial player in this process. While it does not have the final say in granting ST status, its recommendations hold considerable weight. By submitting their memorandum to the NCM, the MMTU is ensuring that their demands are heard by those with the power to influence policy decisions.

Furthermore, the support of social activists and influential politicians adds additional momentum to the cause. If the NCM recommends the Meetei/Meitei for inclusion in the ST list, it could pave the way for more serious consideration by the Indian government.

FAQs

1. Why does the Meetei/Meitei community want Scheduled Tribe status?
The Meetei/Meitei community seeks ST status to gain legal protections, socio-economic benefits, and official recognition of their cultural heritage.

2. What benefits does ST status provide?
ST status offers educational reservations, job quotas, legal protections, and constitutional safeguards, helping marginalized communities advance socially and economically.

3. Who are the key figures supporting the Meetei/Meitei cause?
Notable supporters include Iqbal Singh Lalpura, Rami Niranjan Desai, and Girish Jah, all of whom have voiced their endorsement of the Meetei/Meitei’s demand for ST inclusion.

4. What role does the National Commission for Minorities play?
The NCM can make recommendations for the inclusion of communities in the ST list, making it a key player in advancing the Meetei/Meitei’s cause.