Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, February 16, 2010:
Observing that there is hardly any sign of cordiality between the present Government and the common people, Nationalist Congress Party's State unit president Radhabinod Koijam suggested that efforts should be made to bridge the existing chasm failing which aspiration for peace and development of Manipur would never materialise.
Addressing NCP supporters at the day-long political conference hosted by the political party's Wabagai Kendra Committee at Merciful English School campus located at Hangul Idgah Road today, Radhabinod, who is also the leader of the Opposition in the Manipur Legislative Assembly charged the SPF Government of being indifferent to sentiment of the general public.Expressing that both the Government and the public are moving in opposite direction rather than work in tandem with one another, the former Chief Minister said such divergence underscores degradation in governance.
Contending that elected representatives are neither working in the interest of the electorates nor paying heed to plight of the people, he prevailed upon the people to give their mandate to committed individuals for it is the MLAs that ultimately form a Government.
Further pointing out that inefficiency in governance is the chief cause of all the problems besetting Manipur, the NCP chief asserted that the Opposition parties are closely scrutinising activities of the Govt as well as those elements inimical to the society.
People who had vowed to sacrifice for protection of the land and its citizens are today more inclined on gaining personal wealth and it is no more surprising to hear that certain elements that imposed ban on election related activities decide to relax or withdraw the same stricture after reaching agreement, Radhabinod remarked.
Expressing concern that increasing instability in the society is having its fallout directly upon the womenfolk as women no longer shudder from being used in transportation of destructive weapons, the Thangmeiband AC MLA opined that in case such a trend persist Manipur would soon be transformed into a land of widows and widowers as the latter has already been reeling under the impact of violence.
Calling upon the masses to identify and weed out those elements that had been depriving the people its due share, he reiterated that holding the Government responsible for all the ills of the society could not being instant solution to the problems for the people too have important roles to play in restoring peace and tranquillity.
Citing nomination of the President and election of Prime Minister of India by Indians only as the most important objective in the formation of the NCP, he urged the people to minutely examine candidates before electing them as the people's representatives.
Among others MLAs doukhomang Khongsai and Th Nandakishore, and top NCP State unit functionaries also addressed the gathering.