Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 29:
The ban imposed on NCC activities in the State by three student bodies as part of the ongoing agitation to lift the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, has put a complete halt on the regular training programmes conducted by the Corps since September 21 last as no cadets have turned up for the purpose.
Group Commander, NCC Manipur Colonel RK Gossain said that no cadets have turned up for training at Groups Headquarters Centre at DM Complex here since September 21.The Colonel further said he has been informed that NCC activities have ceased in schools and colleges of the State following the ban.
The three student bodies, namely All Manipur Students� Union (AMSU), Democratic Students� Alliance of Manipur (DESAM) and Manipuri Students� Federation (MSF) had jointly imposed the ban in pursuance of their demand for complete withdrawal of the Act from Manipur.
Apunba Lup, the apex body of the 32 organizations spearheading the agitation had also endorsed the stand of the student bodies.
Reacting to the ban, Colonel Gossain said it was very unfortunate for the youth of Manipur.
He asserted that NCC has been rendering yeomen service and �our role is to guide the cadets to become better citizens of the country�.
NCC provides them opportunities to participate in institutional trainings, adventure outings, social service activities and youth exchange programmes.
The training packages are designed in such a way that they help in development of the personalities of the cadets which in turn would boost their career, he said, adding that last year alone 10 cadets were selected for commissioning into defence forces besides nine others in other ranks.
All these opportunities would be wasted and the agitating student bodes should understand this, he added.
When asked whether the activities would continue or remain suspended in view of the ban, he only noted that NCC is a voluntary organization for the youth.
�We can only impart training only when the cadets come to attend the parades�.
Efforts are on to get microlite in Imphal for the benefit of the cadets in flying training, he disclosed.