During the shutdown of the market since March 24, 2020 due to the pandemic, the three Ima Keithels were renovated, but the Temporary Market has been left out, rue Imas.
TFM Report
Women vendors of Ima Keithel 4 (Temporary Market) warned of intense agitation if the government fails to restore the dilapidated conditions of the sheds by February 10.
Speaking to the media persons on Monday at the Temporary Market, vice-president of the Ima Keithel Lup of Keithel number 4, Wahengbam Luwangleima accused the state government of step-motherly treatment, and said that it was unfortunate.
On the proposed visit of chief minister N Biren Singh on Tuesday at the Ima Keithel 1, 2 and 3, Luwangleima drew the attention of the chief minister to include Ima Keithel 4 in his visit.
She also informed that the Khwairambam Keithel, where all the Ima Keithels are situated, is likely to be opened from February 15 or 16, which has remained closed from March 24, 2020 due to COVID-19 pandemic.
Luwangleima also lamented that the Temporary Market has been ignored, when the women vendors of the market also hold licences and pay their taxes like their counterparts in Ima Keithel 1,2 and 3. During the shutdown of the market due to the pandemic, the three Keithel have been renovated, but the Temporary Market has been left out, she lamented.
On the dilapidated condition of the market, Luwangleima said that it has become a dump, the pillars are rotting, water drops fall through the roofs during rainy seasons, some are even relieving themselves and it has also become a haven for substance abusers.