Threats to RTI activist protested
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, September 08 2012:
An RTI activist who filed an application seeking details of MGNREGS work programmes and other details for Lairenkabi Kadangband Gram Panchayat was reportedly threatened using strong words by an individual claiming to be a UG activist.
Taking strong exception to the unwarranted threats, local people today staged a protest demonstration at Nongchup Sanjenbam bus waiting shed.
The protest demonstration was jointly organised by Nongchup Sanjenbam Meira Paibi Apunba Lup and the Social Youth Organisation, Nongchup Sanjenbam.
The protesters put up placards which read as "Armed rebels should not threaten civilians for demanding their rights", "Don't threaten through telephone", "Don't create panicky atmosphere", "Help us live peacefully" etc.
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Speaking to media persons by the sideline of the protest demonstration, Nongchup Sanjenbam Meira Apunba Lup secretary Khaidem Pasot said that the Social Youth Club and the Nongchup Sanjenbam Meira Paibi Apunba Lup prepared to file an application by exercising RTI Act to the Haorang Sabal BDO in order to elicit detail information about MGNREGS work programmes for the last five years.
Since it was said that filing the application would cost Rs 10,000, the club and the Meira Lup decided to file the RTI application in the name of Sorokhaibam Ibomcha (40) s/o late Shamu using his BPL card.
The RTI application was filed on May 16 this year.
Subsequently, relevant documents containing detailed information were received on July 8 .
In the meantime, an individual who identified himself as an activist of a UG group asked Th Ranjit through telephone to bring the documents obtained through RTI application to Moreh in August.
Th Ranjit is a member of the club.
After discussing the matter with local, it was decided not to go to Moreh.
The individual again rang up Ranjit on September 2 and threatened to kill him if the documents were not brought to Moreh, Pasot said.
She said that such unwarranted threats and obstruction against activities aimed at public welfare from a group which is reportedly working for the nation is uncalled for and is highly condemnable.