No solution through violence : CM Ibobi
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, December 07 2012: The 18th Death Anniversary of ex-Minister Moirangthem Ibotombi was held under the aegis of Moirangthem Ibotombi Memorial Trust at the Moirangthem Ibotombi Memorial Complex, Heirok today.

The anniversary was observed under the theme: "Understanding, Co-existence and Prosperity" .

Speaking on the occasion as Chief Guest, Chief Minister O Ibobi said that as long as there are internal clashes among the different communities settling in the State, no solution of any kind can be brought about.

He further stated that the people of Manipur are fed up with the incidents of crimes occurring in the state where a number of innocent people are being killed and murdered with no fault of theirs.

In fact, the people are longing for a developed society free from all such crimes.

Recalling the incident in which ex-Minister M Ibotombi was killed by unknown armed miscreants 17 years back, the Chief Minister stated, "we have been remaining hapless over the incident for the last many years and have been just paying floral tributes and praying for his soul to rest in peace.

We are also yet to keep the promise of following his footsteps and completing the task left behind for the welfare of the people" .

(Left to Right) Minister Okendro giving away incentive award; Statue of Moirangthem Ibotombi

While asking UG groups and different ethnic groups whether killing one another would bring any solution, Chief Minister O Ibobi said that State Government is against killing of people whether it is among the UG groups or between different communities settling in the State.

"The duty of the government is to safeguard the life and property of every citizen of the state; we cannot remain silent when the life and liberty of the people are at stake", he added.

Admitting that there may be unwanted incidents while the security forces are trying to maintain law and order in the State, the Chief Minister maintained that the State Government has been instructing the security forces not to kill or hurt any individual, whether they are innocent civilians or UG cadres.

However, if the UG cadres start firing at the security forces, the security personnel have no other option but to fire back to save themselves as well as the lives of other innocent people.

The Chief Minister also appealed to all the concerned to stop killing one another and live happily and peacefully.

The function which was marked by offering of floral tributes to the statue of late Moirangthem Ibotombi and other religious rituals due to a departed soul was also attended by Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam, Education Minister M Okendro, other Cabinet Ministers, MLAs and top officials of the Manipur Police department.

In his address, Home Minister Gaikhangam described Moirangthem Ibotombi as a multifaceted leader of both the hill and the valley.

"Violence brings nothing but destruction; therefore, only harmonious co-existence will help bring peace fast," he said.

Gaikhangam also underscored the need of awareness about Right to Information Act (RTI) in order to know the activities of the state Government with proper transparency.

Nonetheless, he noted that some individuals are misusing the Act and said it is really unfortunate.

Minister Okendro, who is also the son of late Moirangthem Ibotombi, while speaking explained that the aim of the Moirangthem Ibotombi Memorial Trust is to spread the idea of love and oneness not just in Heirok but throughout the State and free the State from senseless killings.

Seven candidates who cleared All India Pre-Medical Test (PMT) were also handed a cash prize of Rs 50,000 each on the occasion.