Census imbroglio Dy CM pledges early solution
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 07, 2013: The issue of excluding Mao-Maram, Purul and Paomata sub-divisions of Senapati district from the census report would be resolved very soon for the Chief Minister has received a written intimation from the Ministry of Home Affairs for a joint inspection, stated Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam.

Briefing media persons at Congress Bhavan this afternoon, Gaikhangam stated that the matter of excluding the three sub-divisions from the census report was informed in black and white to the Prime Minister, Home Minister and the Registrar General of India by the Chief Minister.

Along with informing the matter, the Chief Minister urged to work out a solution.

RD Minister Francis was sent to New Delhi and he discussed the issue with the Union Home Secretary and the RGI.

The State Government is keen to settle the issue for excluding people of the three sub-divisions from the census would entail denying them their rights, stated the Deputy Chief Minister.

Subsequent upon the State Government's efforts, the Union Ministry asked the State Government to conduct a joint inspection together with RGI.

As such, the issue would be resolved shortly.

Stating that collection of biometric data for issuing a unique identification number to every citizen of the State is going on at present, Gaikhangam informed that the process was slowed down in the hill districts because of some false propaganda.

Nevertheless, the process has been resumed after church leaders were roped in.

Ministers, MLAs and ADC Members are also involved in the process to ensure that the target (of collecting biometric data) is achieved.

UID number is necessary for all central sponsored schemes and for that matter, awareness campaign is being carried out about the importance of obtaining UID number, Gaikhangam stated.

Commenting on the demands of UNC's alternative arrangement and KSDC's Kuki state, the Deputy Chief Minister questioned where would a tiny state like Manipur be located amidst such demands.

Such demands are bereft of logic.

The Government would consider only constructive issues.

It is crucial for every citizen of the State to identify Manipur as homeland of the Nagas, Kukis, Meiteis and all other communities alike.

He also appealed to all concerned not to multiply the misery of people by imposing bandhs and blockades for they are already enduring severe hardships because of frequent landslides on the highways.

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