Ex-MLA alleges denial of NFSA rice in Tousem, Tamei
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, July 07 2025: Former MLA and former vice-chairman of Hill Areas Committee (HAC), Z Kikhonbou Newmai has alleged that subsidised NFSA rice meant for beneficiaries in Tousem and Tamei blocks has not been delivered for several months, causing hardship to the residents.

In a press release issued Monday, Kikhonbou said that the people of Manipur, both in the hills and valley, have longed for peace and harmony since 2023, but amid the ongoing violence, essential services are being disrupted.

He stated that NFSA rice meant for Tousem block was not delivered for the months of April and May, while beneficiaries in Tamei block have not received rice for April, May and August.

According to public complaints cited by the former MLA, the allocation pending for Tousem block is 889 quintals, totalling 1,778 quintals or 3,556 bags for two months and for Tamei block, 884 quintals, amounting to 2,652 quintals or 5,304 bags for three months.

In total, 8,860 bags of rice are yet to be delivered to the two blocks, he claimed.

Kikhonbou questioned whether the rice has been withheld by the department concerned or misappropriated by agents.

He expressed concern over the situation, especially as the rainy season poses challenges for the hills due to frequent landslides that disrupt road connectivity.

He said that the people of Tousem and Tamei, most of whom depend on jhum cultivation, are among the most marginalised section of people in the state and are facing severe food scarcity as the harvest season is yet to arrive.

The former MLA urged the departments concerned to intervene immediately and ensure that the allocated NFSA rice is delivered to the beneficiaries of Tousem and Tamei at the earliest in public interest.

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