Forum bats for Muslim RS MP
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 16 2014 :
Suggesting that the new Rajya Sabha MP from Manipur be selected from amongst the Muslim community, Pangal People's Forum Manipur spokesperson MI Khan declared that not honouring the proposal would compel Manipuri Muslims to boycott the upcoming lok Sabha elections.
Speaking to newspersons at Manipur Press club today, MI Khan said in the last six decades Manipur's representation in the Rajya Sabha has either been from the Meitei or the tribal community and as such the Muslim community too deserve to have an MP for the Rajya Sabha.
Pointing out that out of 40 assembly segments in the valley districts electors in eight constituencies exercise their franchise right to chose the Outer Manipur Parliamentary Constituency MP but cannot contest in the Parliamentary elections, the Forum spokesperson said with the eight ACs falling mostly in Thoubal district, the Government of Manipur should also consider nominating the Rajya Sabha MP from the eight ACs.
He further confided that former Minister, Abdul Salam who represented Wabagai AC in the State Assembly, has been sharing his (Abdul Salam) opinion on the need for a Muslim representative in the House of the Elders.
Representatives of All Manipur Muslim Girls Students' Union, Manipur Muslim Un-employed Youths Association, All Manipur Muslim Women's Development Organisation and North Eastern Minorities Students' Federation were also present during the media briefing.