No to PPP for Santhei Natural Park
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, September 21 2020:
A sit-in-protest was staged at a community hall near the Santhei Natural Park, Andro by local clubs, Meira Paibis and individuals of Andro today against the Govern-ment's decision to hand over the management of the park to private firms by adopting PPP (Public-Private Partnership) Model.
Santhei Natural Park secretary Th Pishak said that the villagers are totally against the Government's decision to hand over the management of the park to a private firm.
It may be mentioned here that the Tourism Corporation of Manipur Ltd had issued a tender notice on September 7 inviting applications from private firms for the operation and maintenance of the park.
And in protest against the Government's decision, the villagers have been holding protests since September 15 .
Th Pishak further said that the Government instead of listening to the voice of the people has sent police forces to arrest the protesters.
This move is strongly condemned by the people, he said.
Dr Robindro has been arrested for speaking on the issue, he said and demanded his release at the earliest without any conditions.
Meanwhile, the Communist Party of India Manipur State Council State secretary L Sotinkumar Singh has announced its decision to extend support to the protesters.
He said the Government should be considerate towards the people who are earning their livelihood by working at the park.
He was speaking at a function held at Andro Mayai Leikai yesterday as a part of the month long 124rd birth anniversary celebration of Jana Neta Irabot.
The function chaired by CPI veteran comrade Ninthoujam Padma Singh was also attended by Imphal East District Council CPI district secretary H Bimol Singh and Andro local women leader Ch Laibi Devi.