AA almost next to impossible, asserts O Ibobi
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 16 2014 : Chief Minister Okram Ibobi has categorically stated that the particular demand for alternative arrangement being by advocated by certain community based organisations "is almost next to impossible" .

Speaking at the Independence Day function held at 1st MR parade ground yesterday, Ibobi stated the Government of Manipur would not tolerate any threat to the integrity of Manipur.

The Government would never compromise even a single inch of the State's territory.

Pointing that Manipur is inhabited by different communities, Ibobi questioned, "What would be the situation if other communities too start demanding similar ethno-exclusive political arrangements?" .

Chief Minister O Ibobi opened the Independence Day function by hoisting the tricolour before receiving salutes given by different march past contingents.

He also gave away President's Police Medal for Distinguished Service to two police officers, Police Medal for Meritorious Service to four police officers and Correctional Service Medal for Meritorious Service to three individuals including a Jailor.

Ibobi maintained that the incumbent Government has no different opinion regarding the people's demand for implementation of Inner Line Permit System in the State.

The State Assembly adopted two resolutions in favour of enforcing ILPS in the State and the State Government has been lobbying with the Government of India to enforce the same regulation in Manipur.

The Chief Minister also invited the ILPS activists as well as experts to sit together with the Government so as to find whether ILPS can be implemented in Manipur and if yes, up to what extent.

The Government has its door always opened for consultation/dialogue with civil society organisations, experts, scholars and general public regarding various issues of the State.

Ministers and MLAs may also find out the number of illegal migrants residing in their respective constituencies, he suggested.

Yet, it is a matter of serious concern that young students and women are often used as tools by groups/organisations pursuing different demands, Ibobi said.

The Chief Minister also invited the JCILPS to deliberate on the popular issue together with the State Government so that the same demand is articulated in the most comprehensible manner.

He even offered to resign if his Government was not doing what it was capable of.

Regarding deployment of additional forces at Ukhrul, Ibobi clarified that it is intended for maintenance of law and order, not for harassment of people.

If necessary, more security forces would be deployed in other districts of the State, he added.

The march past parade participated by 36 contingents was led by 5th IRB Commandant HT Gangte.

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