Works Minister refutes Jiri Meira Paibi's allegation
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, August 01 2020:
Works Minister, Thongam Biswajit has clarified that the allegation levelled by four Meira Paibi bodies of Jiribam in connection with construction work of Nongchup Sanathong (Western Gate), Jiribam as baseless and unfounded.
It may be mentioned that Apunba Jiribam Meira Paibi (AJMP), Women Association for Economic Development (WASED), Jiribam Ima Women Association of Kangleipak (JIMWAK) and Jiri Keithel Chaokhat Thourang Ima Lup (JKCTHL) today convened a press meet where the bodies urged all concerned to resume and complete the construction work of Nongchup Sanathong (Western Gate) of Jiribam which was put on hold due to alleged intervention of PWD Minister, as early as possible.
The press meet was held at Lamlen Evergreen community hall, Babupara, Jiribam as per a report of the Jiri News Network.
Jiribam Meira Paibi Lup's president, S Sushila Devi stated that COVID-19 induced lockdown has put development works across the State on hold, and so was in the case of the Nongchup Sanathong.
On approaching officials concerned, it was learnt that the construction work was stalled owing to Works Minister's intervention, she said while appealing all concerned not to obstruct/interfere in developmental works.
The women bodies also sought the Chief Minister's intervention into the matter and warned of launching agitations if the necessary steps are not taken up at the earliest.
It may be noted that the foundation stone for the Nongchup Sanathong was laid on December 20, 1999, by the then Chief Minister Late W Nipamacha Singh.
The Minister, on the other hand, stated that he hasn't obstructed the construction work of the Western Gate and the allegation levelled against him is baseless.
He has never indulged in matters that could hinder development work in the State but rather facilitated to complete pending works and works which were put on hold due to certain issues, he said in a statement.
It was unfortunate to see the women's bodies come up with such allegations, said the Minister.
People are well aware of the developmental works being taken up since the formation of the BJP-led Government in the State, he said while maintaining that the work programme for the construction of Nongchup Sanathong was listed by PWD with the consultation of the Chief Minister and considering the importance of installing the gate.
Due preparation for the tender process regarding the construction, is being made, the Minister said while highlighting the prerequisite steps to start construction work.
The Minister, however, accepted the fact that the work has been delayed due to COVID-19 outbreak in the State.
Saying that there is no reason to stall development works in the State, the Minister said that deserving contractor after the tender process may soon start the construction work.
While terming that the allegation as baseless and seemingly intend to bring the State Government in the wrong light, the Minister said that he will be investigating into the matter and find out who and on what basis the construction work was started.
It is surprising to learn that the construction work was commenced without due process and approval from the Works Department, he said while expressing suspicion of some vested interest behind the issue.
The Minister warned all concerned not to misguide the innocent women bodies and maintained that the district will witness a developmental change soon with the installation and construction of other infrastructures apart from the Western Gate.
Appealing all to shun activities that could harm the image of the Government and demoralise the Public Works Department, the Minister said that the incumbent Government welcomes positive thoughts and ideas which will benefit the people.
He also urged all to contact him on his mobile number 9436892786 for any queries regarding the matter.
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