'Save the Paddy field' cries mark Farmers' Demand Day at Kumbi
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, September 03 2014: In connection with the celebration of 118th Birth Anniversary of Neta Hijam Irabot, Manipur Loumi Lup in collaboration with CPI Kumbi Local Council staged a sit-in protest demanding conservation of paddy fields at Kumbi Bazar in Bishnupur district today.

The protest which also marked the Farmers' Demand Day put forward various demands including enquiry into the paddy fields affected by Loktak Project, giving sufficient compensations to the farmers, conservation of Loktak lake and completion of incomplete dams and canals.

The protesters also demanded provision of drinking water and PDS items to the people, a pension of Rs.3000 to farmers above 60 years of age, and proper implementation of Food Security Act.

Besides demanding implementation of ILP system in Manipur, the farmers' protest urged the Government to repeal the AFSPA and save Irom Chanu Sharmila.

They also demanded completion of all water supply schemes in Kumbi area, and installation of electric motors in the RLI pumps.

During the sit-in protest, President of Manipur Loumi Lup, Ex-Minister N.Mangi asserted that even though Khuga dam is reportedly completed, it has not provided water to people of Kumbi.

If sufficient water is made available at the fields, farmers will not be able to harvest their crops, N.Mangi pointed out.

Despite the stipulation of good days 'Achchey Din' by the BJP government at the Centre, the people of India have been facing price rise now, claimed the ex-Minister while noting that Inner Line Permit system has been a burning issue in Manipur.

The people of Manipur are demanding a system to check influx of non-Manipuris coming into the State, he pointed out.

Participating in the protest, L.Sotinkumar of CPI Manipur said that CPI has long been working for the farmers and labourers.

Saying that MPs of CPI have been putting up issues of Manipur for discussion in Parliament, he pledged that the party would continue to serve the people.

Among others, the protest was also participated by Secretary of Manipur Loumi Lup H.Ibobi, veteran CPI member Lala and president of Manipur Nupi Marup Sakhi.

Earlier, the participants offered floral tribute to Neta Hijam Irabot's portrait.

Comment