Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, December 22 2010:
The Manipur Legislative Assembly has condoled the demise of five former and incumbent Members of the House by observing silence for one minute in the opening session of the State Assembly today.
Former and incumbent House Members who expired this year included Manipur Territorial Council Member Sinam Bijoy Singh, Speaker Dr Sapam Budhichandra, Hill Areas Committee Chairman Songchinkhup, former Deputy Speaker Z Mangaibou and former MLA of Keirao A/C Hidam Bidur Singh.
In his condolence message, Chief Minister Okram Ibobi hailed late Sinam Bijoy as a qualified and popular leader.
He stated that late Dr S Budhichandra was a diligent and attentive representative.
The Chief Minister hailed Songchinkhup as a peace loving man dedicated to people's welfare.
Z Mangaibou was an amiable leader dedicated to people's cause.
The Chief Minister also recalled the huge responsibilities shouldered by late Hidam Bidur.
Later during zero hour, CPI MLA N Mangi raised the issue of keeping 27 labourers from Wangoo as captives at Tamenglong.
Stating that the 27 labourers were taken to Tamenglong by a contractor, Mangi urged upon the Chief Minister to rescue the labourers who are being held as hostage for the last 36 days.
He also sought attention of the Chief Minister to take up necessary measures to check forfeiting labourers' wages.