MPP MLAs set record straight
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 11:
Following the strong raised protest by AMADA against their statements made on the floor of the Assembly in connection with prohibition, the two MPP MLAs Dr N Bijoy and Dr Ibohalbi have clarified that the MPP would never stand against civil societies.
Speaking to reporters at Manipur Press Club today, Dr N Bijoy maintained that when the Demands for Excise was deliberated in the House, it was found that the actual revenue earned by the Excise was far too short of the target.
At the revelation, he only suggested that the liquor brewed in the State may be exported to other States by charging taxes and duties.
Bijoy opined that the State can earn considerable amount of revenue by exporting liquor brewed in the State.
Bijoy clarified that his observation was impelled by his consideration that such a measure may do good to the economy of the State.
His observation did not harbour any intention to act against civil societies or to lift the Liquor Prohibition Act, Bijoy asserted.
The MPP MLA further opined that there might be some differences between what the media reported and what was actually said on the floor of the House on that particular day.
He also expressed regret over the misunderstanding with AMADA.
Following the sustained anti-drug and anti-alcohol campaign being taken up by AMADA, drug abuse and alcoholism have been put under a certain degree of effective control.
Many youths have also been saved from the vicious habit, Bijoy noted.
Stating that MPP would never act against civil societies, Bijoy even offered to withdraw the statement he put in the House, in case his statement went against the interest of the people.
Maintaining that he did not utter a single word in the House on liquor prohibition, Ibohalbi decried the act of dragging his name on the same issue for two consecutive days in media.
He also regretted whatever misunderstanding that resulted between MPP MLAs and civil societies.