AITC opens door to dissidents
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, November 18 2014:
All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) has assured that all the dissident members of the party would be given their rightful places if they wish to return to the party.
Stating that all dissident members would be welcomed back, AITC National spokesperson Derek O'Brien announced names of seven proposed candidates for the Assembly election likely to be held in 2017 .
The proposed candidates are Moirangmayum Thoiba (Wangoi A/C), MI Khan (Keirao A/C), Heikham Dingo (Sekmai A/C), Pangambam Premananda (Kshetrigao A/C), Dr Yumnam Radheshyam (Hiyanglam A/C), Tongbram Robindro (Thanga A/C) and Thongam Bishwanath (Langthabal A/C).
Speaking to media persons at Moirangkhom today, Derek O'Brien said that AITC and its 46 MPs have been serving as an active vigilant Opposition party in the Lok Sabha under the leadership of party president Mamta Banerjee.
Claiming that the party has been supporting many key issues of Manipur since the past, the spokesman stated that the major issues of AFSPA and ILPS would be tabled in the winter session of Parliament.
Trinamool Congress legislature wing leader Dr I Ibohalbi and MLA K Sarat were also present at the press meet.
Derek O' Brien said that necessary procedures have been initiated to take back MLA K Sarat within the party's fold.
Others who wish to return to the party would be most welcomed.
This would not only strengthen the party but also facilitate speedy development.
As for the Assembly election likely to be held in 2017, the party would focus its attention on the valley.
O'Brien said that he has announced the names of the seven proposed candidates so that they can start working at the grassroot level.
On being enquired about Chief Minister's assertion as stated on National Press Day that the Information Commissioner could not be appointed due to absence of an Opposition leader, Trinamool Congress State unit president Th Shyamkumar dismissed the Chief Minister's assertion as baseless.
If the Government sincerely intends to fill up the vacant post of Information Commissioner, there is no harm in selecting and nominating a competent Opposition member as the Opposition leader.
The Government has been deliberately keeping the post of Information Commissioner vacant lest all its wrongdoings may come to light, Shyamkumar asserted.