Unified Command under chief minister, says Taragi Cheishu
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, September 12 2024:
Claiming that the Unified Command is under the chief minister in the eyes of law, Taragi Cheishu has warned authorities that it is not right to keep the people in dark arid create confusion.
Addressing media persons at its Porompat office, Taragi Cheishu chairperson Khaidem Mani emphasised that despite changes in its chairmanship, the Unified Command remains under the authority of the chief minister as stipulated by law.
According to an order dated May 31,2023, the chief minister has the authority to convene meetings of the Unified Command whenever necessary.
This clearly indicates that the chief minister is still the head of the Unified Command and retains the power to call meetings.
Therefore, it is incorrect to create confusion among the public by suggesting that the chief minister is unable to fulfil this role.
Article 355 requires the central government to prevent external aggression and internal disturbances to ensure that the state government can function smoothly.
It does not, however, permit the dismissal of the state government.
While Article 257 allows the central government certain rights to intervene in state matters, the state government has remained silent and inactive till date.
The public expect the state government to carry out its responsibilities effectively and with determination, he said.
Khaidem Mani explained that the students' protests and slogans reflect their dissatisfaction with current issues and regime.
However, he condemned the actions of some individuals who are escalating the situation through violence, such as pelting stones.
Such behaviour is unacceptable and should be prevented in the future, and non-students should not be allowed to participate in students' protests, He also criticised the imposition of an indefinite curfew, suggesting instead that if a curfew is necessary, it should be for a specific period.
Taragi Cheishu co-chairperson RK Nimai, who was also present at the media briefing, said that internet ban is counterproductive.
Although the ban is intended to prevent the misuse of social media and reduce tensions, it is likely to create additional issues.
Instead of banning the internet, he suggested that it would be more effective to promptly punish those who misuse social media.