Governor urged not to pass Shri Govindajee Temple (Third Amendment) Bill, 2014: CM
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, October 08 2014: In the wake of protests from various civil society organizations over enactment of Shri Govindajee Temple (Third Amendment) Bill 2014 which placed Umang Lais under it, Chief Minister O Ibobi has said that Governor has been urged not to amend the bill considering differences over it.

The CM was speaking as the Chief Guest of the "Mera Houchongba Ching-Tam Pot Lannabagi Thouram" organized by Lainingthou Sanamahi Temple Board at its premises located at Haying Khongbal Tolong Yumpham here today.

Ibobi stated that Shri Govindaji Temple (Third Amendment) Bill 2014 passed in the Assembly ruled that Umang Lais in the State should take permission from Pandit Loisangs under Govindaji Temple Board for performing Umang Lai Haraoba.

He added that during the discussion of the bill, members of the House resolved to allow Umang Lais to seek permission either from Govindaji Temple Board or Pandit Loisangs under the Board for performing Umang Lai Haraoba.

exchange of gifts done between CM and ex-Minister RV Minthing

After threadbare discussion, the bill was passed in the House.

However, since there have been differences over the credibility of the bill, Governor has been urged not to pass the amendment to the bill, the CM asserted.

Saying that several civil society organizations including the influential Umang Lai Kanba Lup (UKAL) has opposed the bill, Ibobi maintained that meaningful discussion should be held between the government and concerned organizations to bring an amicable solution to the differences over the bill.

Clarifying on appointment of Chairman of Govindaji Temple Board from amongst the government officials who hold top positions, Ibobi said that the post of Chairman of the Board was held by the King of Manipur till 1974, since then someone from the Cabinet Ministers was appointed to the post following the resignation of King Okendro as the Chairman of the Board in the year 1974 .

Asserting that celebration of Mera Houchongba Ching-Tam Pot Lannabagi Thouram is pivotal as people from different communities participated in it, the CM called upon the people to preserve one's culture and establish cordial relationship amongst each other to maintain peace and tranquility in the State.

As part of the celebration, exchange of gifts were done between CM and ex-Minister RV Minthing.

Performances of dance and songs of various communities were also showcased to mark the occasion.

Today's function was also attended by L Jayenta, ex-Minister who now holds the president of Lainingthou Sanamahi Temple Board as President while Works Minister Dr Ksh Ratankumar; PHED Minister I Hemochandra; Deputy Speaker Preshow Shimray and MLA RK Anand were present as Guests of Honor.