Retired bureaucrat Timothy Zimik eyes LS polls
Source: Chronicle News Service / R Lester Makang

Ukhrul, September 12 2023: Retired bureaucrat Timothy Zimik, hailing from Sanakeithei village in Ukhrul district, is gearing up to contest the upcoming 18th Lok Sabha elections scheduled next year.

His decision to enter the political arena is rooted in his commitment to addressing critical issues facing the region.

The former chief commissioner of Income Tax, Indian Revenue Service (India), formally announced his candidacy during a public interaction event held at Kamjong district headquarters on Monday.

Zimik emphasised that his candidacy is solely focused on addressing pressing issues in the hill districts of the state that demand immediate attention from elected representatives.

Addressing the gathering, which included numerous local church elders, public leaders, and community members, Zimik urged everyone to unite and advocate for their rights, ultimately aiming for a brighter future for their people.

One of his primary concerns is resolving the longstanding Naga political issue, which has remained a contentious subject in India.

Zimik noted that after more than seven decades of persistent and sometimes violent strife, the matter has reached a crucial stage with the signing of the Framework Agreement between the Government of India and NSCN-IM on August 3, 2015.He stressed the importance of sustained efforts by Nagas in advocating for their national issue at the Parliament to achieve a positive outcome.

Highlighting the deplorable state of healthcare, education and overall development in the hill districts, Zimik emphasised the need for immediate and substantial measures to alleviate the suffering of the local population.

Leveraging his 36 years of experience as a bureaucrat, Zimik aims to utilise his expertise in public policy implementation.

With extensive experience in high-level administration and the legal held, he expressed his determination to use his knowledge and experience to contribute to the betterment of society.

He articulated his goal to ensure the proper implementation of "policies and programmes of the Union government" in the hill districts, translating them into tangible actions that enhance the quality of life for the people.

Zimik emphasised that the tribal and underprivileged populations of Manipur deserve a brighter and more promising future.

Zimik holds an MA from the School of International Studies, JNU, New Delhi, and served as a research scholar at JNU before joining the Indian Revenue Service.

During his tenure with the IRS, spanning from 1985 to 2022, he held several significant positions in cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and others.

The event was attended by Raizan Long president Zingshongam Kashau, Bungpa Khullen headman Hopingson Chithung, Grihang headman Daniel Shadang, Shimdhar Kamotang of Ramphoi village, Kamjong Baptist Church Pastor Steward Kashung, and Catechist Lucas Shimpam Kashung of St Peter Catholic Church, Kamjong, among others.

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