Hearing on oil exploration shelved
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, August 18, 2012:
Public hearings with regard to oil exploration have been cancelled in Tamenglong district due to intense public protest.
After the conduct of public hearings by Manipur Pollution Control Board (MPCB) at Jiribam and Parbung, another hearing was scheduled to be held at Nungba community hall of Tamenglong district at 11 am today.
However, large number of protesters comprising of villagers and students emerged at the scene and started protesting against the public hearing using placards and banners.
The stir intensified after the organisers announced postponement of the public hearing using loud speakers.
Tamenglong DC and other top officials who came to attend the hearing tried to leave the chaotic scene under security cover.
However, the protesters blocked the officials shouting slogans against the State Govt and the oil exploration works.
As the protesters were not ready to listen the officials other than the permanent cancellation of the public hearing, the officials were compelled to hand over a written paper which mentioned permanent cancellation of public hearing in the district.
Four officials including MPCB Member Secretary appended signature on the paper.
After handing over of the said paper, the protesters allowed the officials to leave Nungba.
Nungba Development Society Secretary Lusing said that local people would not allow to extract natural resources from the district in any condition.
Intense agitation would be launched if such moves are repeated in future.