Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, February 25:
Describing it as �an act of cowardice�, Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) president Gaikhangam has come out strongly against the ambush laid by unidentified militants along the Tongjei Maril route on security personnel while they were returning after election duty from Khoupum yesterday.
The gory incident which took away the lives of 16 security personnel and inflicted suffering on many others should be outrightly condemned by all the peace loving people of Manipur, Gaikhangam said while addressing a press conference at Congress Bhawan here today.
MPCC also share the grief of the bereaved family members and pray for speedy recovery of all those who sustained injuries in the incident, he added.
While appreciating the people for coming out in large number to cast their votes in favour of candidates of their choice in defiance of the threat and intimidation from some quarters, Gaikhangam said Congress party believes that peace and normalcy will prevail only when the people defy such threats and vote for their rights in a democratic manner.
Responding to a question, the MPCC chief said Congress party expects to win 35 to 36 seats.
However, in case of formation of a coalition Government, 36 seats in the election.
However, in case of formation of a coalition Government, it would be rather difficult to go along with UNC-sponsored candidates as it would pose threat to the territorial integrity of Manipur, he added.