CM inaugurates facilities for shifting AR camp
AR vacates 10 acre land on MU side; ₹40 crore proposal submitted for museum
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR
Imphal, November 30 2024:
Chief Minister N Biren Singh attended the inaugural function for construction of infrastructure for shifting of Assam Rifles.
The implementing agency for the construction is the Planning and Development Authority, Government of Manipur.
The inaugural programme was organised by the Department of Art and Culture at Langthabal Old Palace, Canchipur on Saturday.
Speaking at the inaugural function, CM Biren stated that the state is passing through a difficult phase but at the same time the relocation of Assam Rifles (AR) was also a long-awaited demand of the people of Manipur, and the faculties and the students of Manipur University as the land holds historical significance for the people of Manipur.
The relocation of AR camp had taken some time, as the camp could not be relocated suddenly and an alternative location had to be arranged, he explained, while applauding Major General Ravroop Singh for considering the matter seriously and expediting the relocation process.
He informed that the AR has vacated 10 acres of land adjacent to Manipur University Campus, out of the total occupation of around 20 acres as of now.
The old structure of historical importance would be restored and as such, a proposal for restoration work had been sent by the Tourism Department in consultation with the Art and Culture Department.
An amount of Rs 20 crore had already been sanctioned for the same, he further informed, adding that experts' suggestions would be sought during the restoration process.
The CM further stated that AR have kept the environment clean and tidy during their occupation and as it is now being handed over to the people of Manipur, it should be our duty to maintain and preserve the sacred place.
Biren appreciated Union Home Minister Amit Shah for taking the proposal to shift AR camp seriously, considering the historical significance of the place.
He said that for construction of a new museum equipped with modern technology at the Samadhi of Maharaja Gambhir Singh located at Langthabal, the state government had sent a proposal of Rs 40 crore of which an amount of Rs 10 crore have been sanctioned.
Construction work would be started soon, he added.
He further stated that AR is not the enemy for the people of Manipur, but rather they are here for the security and welfare of the people.
The people of the state should honour their service too.
He stressed the need of the hour to maintain the understanding and cooperation amongst the people and the security forces for bringing peace and development in the state.
He also stressed that many people in the mainland India do not have an understanding of Manipur and its location.
Therefore, it is the responsibility of the people of the state in imparting knowledge about our land through publication of general knowledge books.
Speaking about the effects of drug menace on society, CM Biren stated that the state government had started the 'War on Drugs' campaign to save the youths of Manipur.
It is time for the indigenous peoples to unite and stand together to save our future generations, he asserted, while maintaining that the state government has been working dedicatedly to save the future of the indigenous populations of Manipur.
Presiding over the function, Langthabal MLA Karam Shyam said that being self-interested and arrogant amid the prevailing conflict would be bad for the future.
He continued that the current situation is similar to the foreign invasion the land faced in 1819 (Sever Years' Devastation) and in 1892 (Anglo-Manipur War).
There is nothing wrong in offering suggestions, writings, and discussions among each other.
We politicians, however, have a wide room to play in this regard.
Comparing the current situation to that of the scenario of "a crow laughs when the pot breaks", he said that we must not forget the same.
He stressed that now is the time to strengthen the unity, understanding and coordination between intellectuals, social organisations and politicians, and not the time to chase popularity or temporary sentiments and emotions.
Appreciating CM Biren with regard to the programme, Karam Shyam said that he along with students and staff of Manipur University has been calling for relocation of AR from the university premises for a long time.
He then called for forming a committee comprising of student organisations, MU and Art and Culture authority to look after the location.
In his speech as special guest, Major General Ravroop Singh, SM IG-IGAR (S), while delivering his speech, stated that the AR is very pleased to the chief minister for providing one of the best infrastructures as an alternative, which is capable of housing a company and would not affect any of the related operational requirements.
He expressed his willingness to give back the land, although very strategic for AR, to the rightful people of the state who are deeply connected to the sacred piece of land.
He also stated that security forces have to move along together with the public leaders and respect each other's sentiments, and find common ground to help each other.
Other highlights of the inaugural function included the CM leading the cabinet ministers and MLAs in unveiling the plaque and performing rituals at the newly constructed site.
The programme was attended by cabinet ministers, Hill Areas Committee chairman, advocate general of Manipur, MLAs, chief secretary of Manipur, senior administrative officials, faculty and students of Manipur University and staff of the Art and Culture Department among others.
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