Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, December 24 2009:
Although Indian National Congress managed to retain Yaiskul seat, the byelection was a victory for the people if one took it as a referendum for the by-poll was fought between the Government and the people.
Speaking to media persons at their office today, MPP president Dr Nimaichand Luwang pointed out that Congress candidate Suraj could garner 9799 votes as against the 9817 votes secured by the non-Congress candidates together.
The implication of these figures is that 51 percent of the voters are against the Congress party and that they no longer believe in the leadership of Chief Minister Okram Ibobi, Dr Nimaichand claimed.
Saying that downfall of the Congress party in Manipur has begun, Dr Nimaichand maintained that the votes secured by Suraj were not received for being a Congress candidate.
Whatever votes he garnered were sympathy votes given in the name of his late father Kunjeshore.
The Congress party would be facing a really difficult situation in the next Assembly elections scheduled for 2012 .
Claiming that MPP is gaining strength, Dr Nimaichand said that efforts are being made to forge alliance with regional political parties already set up in hill districts with an eye on the next general elections.
The July 23 Khwairamband Bazar incident has turned out to be a big national/international issue and those injured in the firing are still undergoing treatment.
Observing that the people are still anxious when would schools and colleges re-open, the MPP president hailed the High Court ruling which directed the State Government to hand over the case of Khwairamband incident to CBI for investigation.
Congratulating Elangbam Suraj on his election, Dr Nimaichand wished that Suraj would take active roles in the State Assembly as a legislator and work for the welfare of the people.