NCP chief backs plebiscite call
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 14 2011: Former Chief Minister and NCP state unit president Radhabinod Koijam said there is no reason why people of Manipur should not support calls from various section of the society to hold plebiscite as a means to resolve the Manipur-India conflict.

speaking at the flag hoisting ceremony of an NCP sponsored candidate from Ward No 11 for the forthcoming Imphal Municipal Council election, Radhabinod said all possible means should be adopted to find an amicable solution to the insurgency problem.

Disagreeing with the Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh's opinion that demand for plebiscite is unreasonable, the NCP chief suggested that doors should be kept wide open to resolve the conflict as the insurgency movement had already caused immense hardship to people of Manipur.

It is pertinent to add that in the backdrop of the jailed UNLF chairman RK sanayaima asking the Centre to hold plebiscite to enable the people of Manipur decide their own future, several organisations have been organising public meetings in different parts of the State to canvass support of the masses on the issue.

With regard to the ongoing dialogue between the Centre and NSCN (IM), Radhabinod cautioned that in trying to solve the vexed Naga issue interest and views of all the stakeholders should be accommodated to ensure lasting peace in the region.

Strongly advocating peoples' participation in resolving the Indo-Manipur conflict, he also called upon leaders of civil society organisations to take the initiative for bringing insurgent groups to the negotiating table.

Seeking support of IMC Ward No 11 electorates in the ensuing hustings, Radhabinod pointed out that democratic process at the grassroots level is an opportunity for the masses to determine future of Manipuri society.

Saikul AC MLA Doukhomang Khongsai, who also spoke at the flag-hoisting ceremony, said as election is an important element of democratic exercise to decide which political organisation hold the reign of power, there is need for every mature citizens to take part in the electoral process.

Calling upon the people to support NCP candidates in the IMC elections, he also described the forthcoming polls as a test to decide prospect of political groups and individuals for the next general elections.

Doukhomang expressed serious concerned against extravagant election-related spending.

Kshetrigao kendra MLA Th Nandakishore and former law Minister L Ibomcha also addressed the gathering.

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