Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, July 11 2010:
A memorandum containing three demands which included ensuring availability of goods in adequate quantities, effective price control mechanism and developing NH-53 as a viable, standard highway has been submitted to the Chief Minister by AMADA today.
A group of AMADA activists who were marching towards the Chief Minister's official residence from Keishampat junction to submit the memorandum were blocked by police in front of the Raj Bhavan.
Only a few of them were allowed to proceed and submit the memorandum.
In continuation of its Campaign for Survival launched since July 7 against the persistent food scarcity, AMADA volunteers staged a protest demonstration at Keishampat junction at about 11.30 am today.
After holding a street corner meeting there, the AMADA volunteers marched towards the Chief Minister's office at about 1 pm.
The memorandum stated that people have not been getting essential commodities in adequate quantities at appropriate prices even after the blockade on NH-39 and NH-53 has been lifted.
Observing that prices of all commodities have sky rocketed and that traders have been charging exorbitant prices according to their own fancy, AMADA pointed out that such harsh conditions have put the people of Manipur in greatest misery.
Even as the people have been enduring extreme hardships, the Government has maintained a deafening silence, it decried while demanding the Government to control prices and constitute a price fixation committee.
It went to suggest that price fixation committees should comprise of the DC, SP, CAF& PD Director, Agriculture Director, Soil Conservation Director, civil society leaders, Consumers Club, Consumers Forum and representatives of business establishments.
It further urged the Government to develop NH-53 with determination and political will on priority basis.
The memorandum also demanded deployment of State forces along NH-53 for protection of vehicles as well to foster cordial relationship with people settled alongside the highway.
Significantly, the student body, All Manipur Students' Union had launched a crack down on all hoarders and in their recent drive at the godowns located at Mantripukhri, a number of essential goods, which were not available in the market were found.