Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 16:
After a long time, Chief Minister O Ibobi had something to smile about and take digs at certain 'elements'.
And not without reason.
Exulting under the convincing victory of Congress candidate Dr S Budhichandra in the Konthoujam by election, the Chief Minister, who is also the president of the MPCC (I) today said, "The victory of Dr Budhichandra proves beyond doubt that the people of Manipur want peace and believe in the ethos of democracy".
Speaking at the reception function of the victorious candidate, the Chief Minister said, 'Though the election was for just one Constituency there were certain elements who were out to derail the democratic rights of the people and it was unfortunate that the Congress candidate was singled out and intimidated no end," and questioned why the people should be coerced into not exercising their democratic rights.
The very fact that the election witnessed an unprecedented turn out was ample testimony that the people of Manipur believe in democracy and are ready to face any challenge to their rights, observed the CM.
Ibobi also expressed his gratitude to the voters of Konthoujam for reposing their faith in the Congress candidate.
The Chief Minister also assured the people that his Government will strive to implement the promises made during the election campaign and turning to Budhichandra advised, "Nothing should be done to lose the confidence and trust of the people".
Training his guns on the BJP, Ibobi said that when the BJP led NDA Government was in power at Delhi, it was common for them to keep on deferring all matters pertaining to Manipur.
But now with the coming of the Congress led UPA Govt, Delhi has agreed to take up a number of developmental projects for the State, Ibobi claimed.