AR in extortion docks
Bardhan demands probe against AR
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, February 17: CPI National Secretary AB Bardhan has demanded an inquiry into the alleged attempted extortion by Assam Rifles personnel from trucks transporting scrap metals along NH-53 .

Speaking at the inaugural function of the 19th State Conference of the CPI Manipur State Unit at Palace Compound here today, Bardhan asked as to under what authority the Assam Rifles are levying tax upon trucks travelling along the Imphal-Silchar National Highway.

A lens captures the activities of the CPI delegates during the 19th State Conference of the party

Taking a grim note of the alleged extortion by Assam Rifles in addition to UG groups, Bardhan expressed deep concern at the total absence of rule of law in the State.

He also asserted that there will be no alteration in the territorial boundary of Manipur.

Bardhan dismissed the point on unification of Naga inhabited areas under a single administrative area as included in the election manifesto of the Nagaland Pradesh Congress as a mere ploy to woo voters.

Yet he questioned whether it would not require revision of the UPA Government's Common Minimum Programme.

Stating that the CPI is aware of the NSCN(IM)'s demand raised since 1960, the CPI Secretary noted the predominant necessity for collective development of the peoples of the North East region.

He also pledged continued support towards the people's struggle aimed at safeguarding the integrity of Manipur.

On AFSPA, Bardhan observed that the issue does not concern Manipur only but the whole North East region.

Asserting that the CPI will strive further to rescind the infamous military Act totally, Bardhan observed that the insurgency movement in Manipur is an offshoot of the Government's inability to address the problem of unemployment.

Nevertheless, he advocated political dialogue with insurgent groups to solve the existing problem of insurgency.

Bardhan further called upon the party delegates to discuss the political report and resolutions produced by the party.

CPI North East in-charge Pramod Gogoi observed that an imminent major problem in the whole North East region including Manipur has been thwarted by the united and steadfast stance of five North East States against the initiative of the Delimitation Commission of India to undertake delimitation in the region.

Asserting that the draconian AFSPA was enacted by the Congress party, Gogoi recalled of the Reddy Commission's recommendation to repeal the Act.

The inaugural function also featured cultural programmes presented by dance troupes of the Chiru, Rongmei, Kom and the Gangte.

Later the three day State conference was opened by CPI Control Commission's chairman Moirangthem Ibohal.

More than 650 delegates are participating in the conference.

The inaugural function at Palace Compound was attended by CPI National Secretary AB Bardhan, North East in-charge Pramod Gogoi, Health Minister Pheiroijam Parijat, MLA N Mangi, central committee chairman M Ibohal, ex-MLA Dr M Nara , MLA Usham Deben, MLA T Borajao and other important functionaries of the CPI Manipur unit.

According to sources, the conference will focus on the outstanding issues of Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act and dialogue with insurgent groups.

It is reported that the conference may adopt a resolution on declaration of unilateral ceasefire so as to bring a conducive atmosphere for political dialogue with insurgent groups.

Other agenda likely to feature during the State conference are unemployment problem, increase in prices of essential commodities, Look East Policy, law and order situation and the issue of territorial integrity.

Resolution adopted in the State conference will be deliberated further in the CPI National conference scheduled from March 23 to 29 at Hyderabad.