Source: The Sangai Express
Ukhrul, September 16, 2009:
Shortage of security personnel in the aftermath of the BSF troops being pulled out of the State for deployment in naxal affected States, is reported to be having adverse effect in the continuation of the rail-track extension work on the Jiribam-Imphal route.
An informed source said, with the withdrawal of some battalion of the BSF since August 30, there is no immediate sign for replacement of the security force personnel at the rail-line construction sites thereby stalling the vital project.
As per decision of the Central Government, BSF troops in large number have been shifted to contain naxalite movement in the States of Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal.
It may be reminded that soon after BSF troops left the Nongpok Sekmai camp on September 9, suspected UG cadres had destroyed the Primary health Centre.
In the meantime, the source conveyed that a battalion strong BSF troops had been extending security cover to the indian railways' personnel engaged in the Jiribam-Imphal project, but this has come to a standstill due to pull-out of the troops.
The source, however, affirmed that indian railways authorities are committed in ensuring expeditious completion of the project in case requisite security personnel are provided/deployed at the project sites.
It is also informed that the State Government had already apprised Central Government authorities on the need for replenishing the strength of security personnel and there is positive response from the Centre on sending additional security force.
Mention may also be made that Chief Minister O ibobi Singh had already conveyed to Central authorities to reconsider the decision to withdraw BSF troops on the ground that prevailing law and order situation in the State necessitates presence of security personnel in adequate strength.