Ban on entry of non-locals CM warns of stern action
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, June 05 2013: Reminding that prohibiting entry of non-Manipuris into the State would amount to anti-national activities, Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh said strong directives have been issued to all law enforcement agencies to initiate appropriate punitive action against anybody found involved in anti-national acts.

Speaking to newspersons at Congress Bhavan conference hall today, Ibobi stated that the Government is aware about volunteers of NGOs demanding Inner Line Permit system in Manipur stopping vehicles on the highways and aborting journey of non-Manipuris into the State.

Reiterating that the Government will not remain silent if entry of Indian citizens into Manipur is restricted/prohibited by any organisation or individual, he also confirmed report about pro-ILP campaigners conducting meetings in educational institutions as a part of their campaigns to enforce ILP system in the State.

Terming the campaign as ridiculous and unjustifiable, the CM asserted that even during wars sanctity of educational and medical institutions is respected by all the parties involved in the conflict.

Ibobi at the site of the unveiled statue of Pandit Nehru at Congress Bhawan

Suggesting that all activities amounting to disruption of normal academic chores be stopped immediately, he said firm action against disruptive elements cannot be ruled out.

Referring to the State Assembly adopting a resolution for introduction of ILP to drive home the point that the Government is committed to bring in entry-regulation legislation, Ibobi affirmed that there has been continuous pressure on central leaders and officials on the issue.

Acknowledging the people's wish to protect identity of the tiny hill state and its indigenous communities, the CM welcomed all concerned in jointly prevailing over the Central Government on the need to implement ILP system in Manipur.

If the need arises pressure could be mounted so that requisite constitutional amendment is effected to bring a legislation on checking entry of non-locals, suggested Ibobi.

sharing personal viewpoint on his recent visit to Myanmar in connection with the Investment and Business Conclave held at Sagaing Division, the CM expressed that the warm welcome accorded to him and other Indian delegates suggest that the international neighbour is keen to establish cordial relationship with India in order to enhance trade ties and develop infrastructure in the resource rich nation.

Meanwhile, AICC general secretary Luizinho Faleiro, who is also the party's Manipur in-charge unveiled a statue of India's first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru at Congress Bhavan today.

A political conference of unit congress committee presidents was also held at Congress Bhavan, which was attended by Faleiro, Chief Minister O Ibobi singh, Deputy CM Gaikhangam, party MLAs and unit office bearers.