Hillghat GP ward member urges protection of abandoned properties in Jiribam
Source: The Sangai Express

Jiribam, October 22 2025: Ngariyambam Gopeshwor Singh, ward member of Hillghat Gram Panchayat, Ward No 1, Administrative Committee, Jiribam, has appealed to the authorities concerned to take immediate steps to safeguard both private and government properties that have been repeatedly vandalised and damaged since the eruption of violence in the State.

Gopeshwor Singh, speaking to media persons, expressed concern that despite several appeals to the authorities for the protection of properties left behind by Meitei villagers, no effective measures have yet been taken.

As a result, many houses, government buildings, and private establishments in the area have reportedly been subjected to vandalism and destruction.

He stated that due to the ongoing unrest in the State, many residents have been displaced from Babukhal since May 5, 2023, and initially took shelter at Jirighat Junior High School before being shifted to Bidyanagar Multipurpose Sports Complex, where they have since remained.

Gopeshwar pointed out that while Kuki community, and villages of Hmar community have been provided adequate security arrangements for their villages, the Meitei community continues to face neglect.

Despite appeals to the District Administration on June 10, 2024, for the protection of the remaining properties left behind by Meiteis, incidents of looting and arson have continued, with reports of houses being burnt and valuables stolen.

He further alleged that even public utilities such as electricity lines and transformers were found stolen, and urged the Government to arrest the culprits.

The ward member also appealed to authorities to assist internally displaced persons (IDPs) who have been staying in relief camps for nearly two years, calling for adequate security arrangements and the facilitation of their safe return to their original homes.

The meeting was also attended by the villagers of Boroikhal, Babukhal and Sabukhat.

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