The chief minister also stated that there were many factors that gave an easy way out to the drug peddlers and smugglers.
By Tennoson Pheiray, TFM Ukhrul Correspondent
Speaking on drugs related issues in the state, Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh on his recent visit to Ukhrul said, “There are instances in which police are involved in drug business, some of them giving backups to the peddlers and some helping in transport and supply. In some cases, Judges had to let out the accused on bail because the public prosecutors were not briefing them properly”.
The chief minister said this during a facilitation programme hosted by Tangkhul civil society organisations on April 26.
Dwelling on the same topic, N Biren also added, “Among all the interactions with the leaders of CSOs and villages I have had so far, today is one of the best. I am comforted to hear their commitment to eradicate poppy plantation and support the war on drugs. I really appreciate this”.
He referred to a seminar cum interactive workshop for Public Prosecutors and Police Officers held at City Convention Centre, Imphal on April 25 attended by host of concerned authorities. “In the seminar, we had a serious discussion on why we are lacking behind in dealing with drugs related matters. I responded, we need sincerity.
The chief minister added that there were many factors that gave an easy way out to the drug peddlers and smugglers. “As an alternative to poppy cultivation, I hope to entrust one minister to work with affected villagers, hand in hand, with horticulture, agriculture and forest departments. We will conduct awareness programmes on the impact of poppy cultivation,” he said.
N Biren also mentioned that the removal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) from Manipur has been “a long due demand”. “This is my assurance to all of you, there will be review meeting after every 6 months. In the next review, I will surely vouch for complete removal of AFSPA from the entire State of Manipur” stated the chief minister.
Attended the Felicitation cum Interaction Programme at the TNL Ground, Ukhrul today. It’s always a wonderful feeling to be back and address the people of Ukhrul. We must remember that the Tangkhuls and Meitei shared a crucial relationship since time immemorial. pic.twitter.com/5CNdtt6itY
— N.Biren Singh (@NBirenSingh) April 26, 2022
On the occasion, N Biren Singh while thanking the Tangkhul civil society organisations for organising such programme stated that “only BJP could have formed the government but for inclusive development of hills and valley, and most importantly, as per the advice and direction of Prime Minister Modiji and Home Minister Amit Shahji and central leaders, we have included other parties in the government formation in spite of getting absolute majority. To continue the close relationship between the hills and the valleys, our leaders at the centre have allotted a ministerial berth to Tangkhul community. Portfolios of remaining cabinet will be announced soon.”
The chief minister also remarked that “with the support of the people, we saw the last five years without blockades or ethnic tensions, and we were able to put our focus on development. We could bring changes in five years. But there is so much more to be done in the coming years. My political vision and thoughts have always been about service to the humanity and development; to help the less advantage people in the years that God has given me.”
He said Tangkhul civil society organisations had also submitted memorandums with charter of demands. “This is an indicator that multiple things needed to be done in spite of the many development works that have been taken up till date. The new government will focus on drinking water in Ukhrul. We can imagine what will happen to the valley if there is water scarcity in the hills. Ukhrul District will be in the second phase and has been earmarked at the cost of 95 crores. We will send team of experts to assess the feasibility of water source at the earliest. It is our hope that our women folk will stop fetching water two three kilometers away and get water right at their doorstep. Every household will get drinking water connection. Please cooperate so that this will work out,” he said.
The chief minister also announced a special package for Ukhrul. He said that rope-ways will be constructed starting from Mahadev to Ukhrul and from Ukhrul to Shirui under the Parvatmala: National Ropeways Development Programme. “Amusement park is also being built to be inaugurated within 100 days. The park will have swimming pool, cafeteria, play area for children, etc. for social entertainment. Another target in 100 days is to black top all the roads of Ukhrul town from drainage to drainage, and the work has begun”, he said.
N Biren also stated, “The inefficient functioning of schools and institutions is one of our biggest failures. Therefore, we have given charge for each of the 68 sub-divisions in Manipur to IAS officers for efficient functioning. The concern IAS officers will report to the authority for necessary actions”.
We want complete removal of AFSPA from hill districts: TNL
On the ocassion, president of Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) David K Shimray said, “Tangkhul people want peace and wish to have good relationship with every communities and neighbours. We are not happy with AFSPA which is still being enforced in our district. We want complete removal of AFSPA from hill districts. We also urged the present Government to upgrade Pettigrew College, the only Government college in Ukhrul District to University level. There is aslo acute shortage of manpower at Government offices/institutions existing in Ukhrul and Kamjong Districts. This vacuum must be filled at the earliest. Scarcity of drinking water at Ukhrul Headquarters has been a continuous problem that people face every year, this needs immediate attention.”
President of TNWL, SA Ramnganing informed that the felicitation programme was hosted “to breach the gap and cement our relationship”. He state that “Shirui Lily Football Tournament which was first organised in 1973 has been elevated to national level in 2008. The tournament however lacks adequate fund. As you yourself being a footballer and strong supporter of sports, your support and action is called for to make Shiri Lily Football Tournament reach the level and enjoy the status it has been given.”
He also drew the attention of the chief minister on non-implementation of Border Area Development Programme (BADP) since 2019. “You are aware that Ukhrul and Kamjong shares the longest international border among the districts of the state, sharing 150 kms long border. We call your attention to implement this at the earliest.”
Referring to a mural painting of N Biren Singh at Ukhrul Headquarters Ground, SA Ramnganing said that it was a gift from the Tangkhul civil society organisations to the chief minister. However, unlike other gifts, the chief minister would have to leave it behind instead of taking it home.
The felicitation programme was also attended by MP Sanajaoba Leishemba, Minister Khashim Vashum, Minister L Susindro Meitei, MLA Leishiyo Keishing, MLA Ram Muivah and various leaders and elders of Tangkhul community.