BJP bemoans fate of Sangai
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, November 29 2015:
Pointing out that head of some other species of deer is being used in the logo of the ongoing Manipur Sangai Festival, BJP Manipur Pradesh has asked the State Government if they have done anything substantial to protect and preserve endangered Sangai.
Speaking to media persons at their Nityaipat Chuthek office today, BJP Manipur Pradesh general secretary (administration) M Ashnikumar remarked that using head of some other deer species in the logo of Manipur Sangai Festival reflects absence of coordination between Tourism Department and Forest Department.
On the other hand, Sangais are struggling for survival in Keibul Lamjao which is 40 sq Kms in area.
During the past 13 years, Chief Minister O Ibobi and Forest and Environment Minister Th Debendra never visited Keibul Lamjao National Park with a genuine concern for protection and preservation of Sangai, Ashnikumar said.
The Government of India appointed a Deputy Conservator in 1997 to look after Keibul Lamjao National Park but the Deputy Conservator has been sitting at Sanjenthong rather than at the park.
The Government's failure to incorporate any substantial amount of money in the State budget implies that the endangered Sangai is never a priority for the Congress Government.
Protection of Sangai would remain ineffective without cooperation of local people and there is a need devise an action plan for protection of Sangai and welfare of people living in the vicinity of Keibul Lamjao National Park, he asserted.