Dy CM equates threats to rights violation
Campaigning for ADC election gains momentum
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 25 2015 :
Deputy Chief Minister and MPCC president Gaikhangam has likened intimidation of voters by some political parties with the intention of winning the ADC election by hook or crook to human rights violation.
A joint election rally cum flag hoisting ceremony of the INC candidates of Jessami, Nungbi, Chingjaroi, Halang, Chingai, Tolloi, Teinem, Somdal, Tongou and Kachai was held today at Mantri-pukhri.
Addressing the gathering, Gaikhangam, without naming any political parties or groups, said that these parties and groups have been threatening voters of Ukhrul ADC at gun point in total contravention of the very foundation of democracy.
To enable each and every voter to vote freely, the electorate need to stand united and firm.
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Gaikhangam asserted that the BJP-led NDA is intrinsically sectarian and discrimi- natory based on religion, faith and topography.
He quoted Union Minister of Minority Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi who stated that all those who could not survive without beef should go to Pakistan.
In connection with the ensuing ADC election, one individual was killed in Tamenglong while another citizen was beaten up severely in Ukhrul.
These incidents, rather than cowing down the electorate, have emboldened them to stand firm against all kinds of electoral malpractices and arm-twisting tactics.
It is everyone's knowledge that Congress party is fully committed to secularism.
Rather than campaigning for the ADC election in accordance with standard norms, BJP Ministers of the Central Government have been promising all kinds of benefits provided BJP candidates are elected.
Stating that such promises violate the election code of conduct, Gaikhangam declared that formal complaint would be lodged soon.
BJP has transformed UPA's Look East Policy to Act East Policy and then to Kill East Policy.
Even as certain elements have been imposing all kinds of prohibitions against INC candidates, people of Ukhrul have woken up and they are now determined not to allow anyone to forfeit their rights.
Those people who are claiming themselves to be 'National workers' or 'freedom fighters' have been acting like agents.
If they wish to serve the public sincerely, Congress party is ready to extend all possible help, Gaikhangam said.
He went to claim that Congress would win around 18 seats in Ukhrul ADC.
Deputy Speaker Preshow Shimray appealed to all the electorate to defy the diktats of unwanted elements and vote for the candidates of their choice.