Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, April 09 2010:
The statement (press release) of RPF against the officers of 29 Assam Rifles and troops is simply a case of frustration leading to vilification, said a PRO
IGAR (S) release.
Pointing out that over the last two years, troops of the AR unit always stood by the villager of Kwatha in their hour of need, the PRO said the ancient temple at Kwatha is revered by the troops as well.
It is on record that the troops of 29 assam Rifles helped the villagers in successful conduct of annual mela in honour of the deity, the PRO release informed while citing media reports as confirmation that the AR gesture had been acknowledged by the locals.
Moreover, the 29 AR under 26 Sector had provided lot of stores for renovation of the temple including donation of cements bags, CGI sheet, paints, bulbs and tubelights (fluorescent tubes), it reminded while conveying to all concerned that initiatives of the AR unit had been acclaimed in the local media.
The successful civic action programme carried out by the AR troops in the village and general area have weaned the locals and youths away from militant organisations, highlighted the PRO release with the observation that such endeavour of the AR has irked leaders of insurgent groups.
"hence they have taken out their helplessness on a decorated officer Major MS Arunkumar, who has worked beyond the call of duty to help the locals and is appreciated by all" .
The Assam Rifles PRO press release also suggested that all concerned go through the April 1 edition of State dailies wherein the Assam Rifles' pledge and subsequent translation into action in repairing the 600 years old temple had been documented beyond doubt.