Powers to local bodies for outreaching the poor : CM
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, May 31 2011: With the work for decentralization of powers being taken up in the state, the government is working out to devolve maximum powers to local elected bodies, Chief Minister O Ibobi said today, speaking as chief guest at the opening function of the flagship training programme of Congress workers at New Canaan village in Ukhrul.

He said that the other objective of the devolution of powers to local elected bodies like the ADC and Gram Panchayats is to outreach the benefits of various government sponsored development and welfare schemes to the poorer sections of the society.

An effective functioning of the local elected bodies is a must for improving the living conditions of the poor.

This is the reason behind the government's initiative in devolution of powers to local bodies, he said.

Government has decided to devolve more power to the Autonomous District Councils (ADCs).

Apart from this, government has to constitute committees which would be led by ADC members for looking after affairs of the schools under the ADC.

This step has been taken up as ADC chairmen alone cannot look after the overall affairs of the schools, the CM added.

Rishang Keishing, O Ibobi and Gaikhangam at the Congress party awareness programme in Ukhrul

Further, the CM said that in the just concluded IMC election, political parties who have always criticised the Congress suffered a humiliating defeat.

While some parties could not secure even a single seat some won just one seat each.

This shows that the people have confidence with the Congress.

However, he informed the Congress workers, of the need to translate into action the promises kept by the party to the people at the time of elections.

Only those works which would be agreed by the people should be done.

They should remember that the voice of the people is the voice of God, he added.

The CM also called for an end to the culture of threatening people with bombs, gun etc.

saying that this will not last.

There is no place for violence in a democracy.

The rule of the people is real democracy, he asserted.

MPCC president Gaikhangam who attended as president of the opening function of the flagship programme, said that with the Congress securing the majority in the IMC election, the party is set to form the new municipal council.

The party won in 14 wards and two independent councillors supported by the Congress will also be part of the team at the time of formation of the IMC, he added.

Congress is the only party that goes hand in hand with the people and works for the welfare of the people, MP Rishang Keishing who also spoke on the occasion claimed he had urged the people not be fearful of threats meant to divert their minds while casting their votes.

People should safeguard their rights the Rajya Sabha MP said adding that they should be bold enough to fight back those elements who continue to intimidate the people.