Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 28:
The JAC Against Shifting of ITI Imphal East has strongly opposed the decision of the Centre to shift a new ITI originally allotted at Imphal East to Arunachal Pradesh by contending that it would be a great loss not only to the people of the district but also to the entire State.
Addressing media persons at the official quarters of MLA Bihari Singh at Babupara today, JAC treasurer L Manaotombi informed that the JAC would be meeting the Chief Minister and submitting a memorandum in this connection.
Depending on the response of the Chief Minister on the issue, the JAC would decide the further cause of action to be taken up, he added.
He further said that the foundation stone for constructing the new ITI was laid on January 29, 2001 at Phaknung by the then Chief Minister W Nipamacha and Labour Minister T Hangkhanpao.
But some vested interest persons tried to shift the site to Ukhrul district on the sly while the 7th State Assembly was in animated suspension, he alleged, and added that the JAC was fanned subsequently and filed a case at the Gauhati High Court against the move and the case is still pending in the court.
The JAC has also been agitating against the move and memorandum have been submitted to all the authorities concerned, he said, lamenting that in spite of all these, the Government of India has went ahead with its decision to shift the site of the new ITI centre at Arunachal Pradesh.
It may be noted here that the Special Commissioner, Govt of India in a faxed message to the State Commissioner (Labour) and Chief Secy on January 18 had communicated the decision of the PMO/Ministry of Labour for shifting the new ITI meant for the Imphal East/Ukhrul to Arunachal Pradesh till such time as the court case is resolved.
The decision was taken during a meeting held in the PMO on January 16.The meeting convened specially with regard to setting up of new ITI and strengthening of the existing ones in Manipur, reportedly noted with concern the progress of works in the State is extremely slow.
The project will end in a year's time and if the works are incomplete and funds not drawn, the liability would fall on the State Government, the faxed message pointed out.