Drought declaration in Manipur would sound irrational: CM O Ibobi
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, July 27, 2012: Manipur has so far received 63 per cent of the annual average rainfall, it would sound irrational and irresponsible for the State Government to declare drought in Manipur, and the Centre is unlikely to accept the same declaration, stated Chief Minister Okram Ibobi.

He was speaking at a reception function of the newly elected office bearers of the Indian Youth Congress, Manipur State Committee and the Committee's Inner and Outer Manipur Parliamentary Constituencies organised by the Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee at Congress Bhavan today.

Addressing the gathering, which was also attended by Cabinet Ministers, Congress MLAs, District Council Members and MPCC officer bearers, Ibobi said that the Government has been closely monitoring the situation caused by inadequate rainfall by discussing the issue in Cabinet meetings and other forums every now and then.

Noting that some NGOs and voluntary organisations have been criticising the Government for not officially declaring drought.

Ibobi maintained that the Congress Government being an elected Government, cannot make irresponsible statements.

This does not mean that the agitating organisations are irresponsible.

The Government must weigh every merit and demerit before embarking on anything, Ibobi stated.

The Government of India could not find any fault with the State Government when drought was declared in Manipur in 2009 because the State received only 43 per cent of the average annual rainfall.

The Government has been monitoring daily rainfall rate starting from the month of January this year.

The Government is also studying if drought can be declared in the State.

Starting from the month of January till date, Manipur has received 63 per cent of the annual average rainfall rate.

Under such circumstances, the Centre would not be convinced when the State-Government declares drought in Manipur.

It is not about fear for the Centre but rationality of the move.

The Government simply cannot do anything irresponsible or ridiculous, Ibobi asserted.

Acknowledging that NGOs and voluntary organisations are also serving the people, the Chief Minister advised to check if it is acceptable to the law and Constitution before uttering something.

Turning his attention to the newly elected office bearers, the Chief Minister claimed that they would determine the future of Manipur.

He exhorted them to be responsible citizens as well as dedicated Congress workers.

MPCC president Gaikhangam too called upon the newly elected office bearers to exploit power and talents of youth in order to strengthen the party and the accelerate the pace of development in the State.

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