Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 22:
In continuation of the cease work strike being launched since October 17, members of Manipur Hill and Plain Contractors� Association today staged sit-in-protest demonstration in front of the PWD office complex at Khoyathong demanding release of pending bills for the civil workers of PWD before Ningol Chakkouba festival.
The agitating members also did not allow any of the contractors to enter the PWD office complex today.
Talking to mediapersons, the contractors informed that although a total of Rs 99.48 crores had been earmarked in the budget for PWD, payment liable to the contractors amounting to around Rs 75 crores is yet to be released.
Whereas, in case of PHED and IFCD, the amount has been released in three installments, they rued.
While informing that they would intensify their agitation till the demand is met, the agitating contractors further warned of taking recourse to violence and demolishing structures/buildings found constructed while the agitation is on.
Meanwhile, publicity secretary of the Association Th Rajeshor Singh, in a statement, announced that along with restriction of entry of contractors/sub-contractors into PWD complex with effect from tomorrow, the contractors/sub-contractors would cease all developmental works being taken up under PWD with immediate effect.
He also warned that the contractors/sub-contractors concerned should be ready to face any eventuality if they defying the restriction.
On the other hand, the Employees� Union of Directorate of Food and Civil Supplies (FCS) continued with its cease work strike cum Wakat Meepham at FCS Godown, Sangaiprou for the second consecutive day demanding lifting of ban imposed on transporting essential commodities under Public Distribution System by an underground organisation.
The agitating employees contended that prices of essential commodities including rice witnessed a sharp hike in the market due to the restriction even before the State had recuperated from the protracted economic blockade on the National Highways.
Moreover, large quantity of essential goods at the FCS godown are getting spoilt as restriction has been imposed on lifting them for distribution to the people, they said.
Acting general secretary of the Union M Ingocha while informing that the ongoing agitation would continue until the demand is met, also appealed to all concerned to lift the ban.