Deputy Chief Minister preaches development
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 14 2013: Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam has said that development process can be accelerated if the democratic institutions of the State function properly.

Gaikhangam was speaking at the opening session of a two-day seminar organised on the topic, 'District Council and its functions in the protection of tribal rights' at the auditorium of Tribal Research Institute today.

TA & Hills/TRI Commissioner SK Dev Verman was the president of the function, while Sadar Hills ADC Chairman Haokholal Hangshing, Senapati ADC Chairman John Raleng, Tamenglong ADC Chairman G Soihem Haomei were the guests of honour.

Saying that the way of functioning in all the democratic institutions of India ranging from Parliament to local bodies is similar, Gaikhangam said that progress in bringing development can be enhanced if these institutions go hand in hand.

Saying that the State Government is putting in effort to em-power all the democratic institutions of the State, he said holding ADC elections after 20 years was part of this empowerment.

He however said that it is still questionable whether ADCs are functioning properly or not.

The Deputy Chief Minister said that ADC Members must also understand their responsibilities apart from demanding their rights.

He added that it is justifiable to demand for more power by ADCs as it is their right.

The reputation of being a democratic institution would get degraded if the State Government concedes to the demand of a separate Budget Head for ADCs, Gaikhangam observed.

Manipur High Court Advocate Siamzading Valte and R Daniel spoke in the seminar as resource persons.

On the second day tomorrow, Government Advocate Reisang Ramung will speak in the seminar.

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