Imphal, August 03: While asserting that it is the political duty of the Government to protect and safeguard the integrity of Manipur, Art & Culture and Agriculture Minister Ph Parijat has expressed unhappiness over students taking undue interest in politics.

While speaking at the valedictory function of the two-day training programme on HIV/AIDS organised by All Manipur Nupi Marup, Keishamthong area at Hotel Excellency here today as chief guest, the Minister said imposition of indefinite economic blockade along the National Highways by student body like All Manipur Students� Association, Manipur (ANSAM) to oppose the decision of the State Government in declaring June 18 as State holiday is not right nor a duty of a student body.

Even if any other student bodies have raised their voice against such a decision, the State Govt and the people should not take seriously, he said.

If even talks are to be held for resolving the matter, it should be held at Imphal only, he said, adding that causing untold suffering to the people for such a long time over a minor issue which could have been settled easily very unfortunate.

It is through politics that the integrity of Manipur could be protected and the Govt is three to do its duty of protecting the integrity and ensure maintenance of cordial relationship among its people.

It is not the duty of the NGOs, organisations or student bodies to meddle into this matter, he said.

Parijat maintained that the Chief Minister should not go to Senapati district for holding the talks with ANSAM.

Because ANSAM is not a party which is at the helm of power of a State or a country, but just a student body of Manipur, he pointed out.

What if every sundry student organisation started calling Chief Minister for talks to press their demands, he asked.

In fact the Govt is presently hav ing needless headache because of the presence of a number of organisations which do not listen to one another, he added.

MLA of Keishamthong A/C L Ibomcha was the president and Marup president advisor RK Ongbi Pramo Shija was the guest of honour of the function.