CM strikes tough stance, not to budge an inch, explains Govt stand
ADC polls to go ahead as scheduled, notification to be issued soon
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, April 22 2010: A meeting of the State Cabinet today has recommended holding of the election to the Autonomous District Councils in May and declaration of its results by first week of June.

Addressing a press conference after the Cabinet meeting today, Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh said that since the Cabinet has given its recommendations, the State Election Commission would be issuing necessary orders very soon.

Notwithstanding any opposition, the Government would go ahead and ensure successful conduct of the election and necessary fund for the purpose have been kept aside, he said.

Chief Minister addressing the media on ADC election and 6th Pay

The Chief Minister explained that the step for early conduct of the election to the Autonomous District Councils is being taken up following pressure from the Centre which feels that any delay in the election to the local bodies in the hills, in contrary to the regular conduct of the election to the local bodies in valley districts, amounts to curtailing the democratic rights of the people.

There is also the issue that the fund for the various Centrally sponsored flag programmes may not be released if the election to the local bodies in the hill districts is not conducted, the Chief Minister added.

The Chief Minister further explained that inspite of the great efforts made by the Government, holding of the election to the Autonomous District Councils in the hill districts has been delayed due to various reasons like amendment of the Act, delimitation process and preparation of the voters' list.

The Chief Minister asserted that ADC Act has been amended suitably.

But if it is required to be amended, then the same can be done after the election is over.

Stating that the economic blockade along the National Highways is being imposed by some group of people with vested interest, the Chief Minister said that the Government would not tolerate such destructive elements.

The Govt is also considering to declare such elements as anti-Nationals, he further said.