Seven BJP MLAs press Guv to fulfill four demands, ‘formation of Manipur Govt lies with Centre’

Imphal: Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla responded positively to four major demands put forth during a meeting held on Thursday evening, said MLA Khongbantabam Ibomcha on Friday during a media interaction held at BJP office, here.

The demands were compensation for farmers affected during Phase II in 2023, financial assistance for the construction of homes for internally displaced persons (IDPs), payment of rent and damage compensation for private schools and colleges occupied by security forces since May 3, 2023, and adequate deployment of security personnel to areas where construction of IDP housing may soon begin.

Ibomcha said the governor assured them that necessary steps would be taken.

Responding to reporters on any discussion on the issue of forming a new Manipur government, Ibomcha said, “ We did not raise the topic. The formation of a new government is the responsibility of the central leadership.”

On Thursday evening, seven MLAs RK Imo, Usham Deben, Dinganglung Gangmei, Sapam Ranjan, K. Ibomcha, Karam Shyam, and Sapam Kunjakeswor, also known as Keba met with Governor Bhalla at Raj Bhavan in Imphal to discuss key public concerns.

They submitted a memorandum consisting of the four primary demands and requested prompt action from the Governor.

Meanwhile, the People’s Progressive Alliance, Manipur, a coalition of 16 civil society organizations, issued an ultimatum on Tuesday demanding the formation of a new government within a week. They warned that failure to do so would lead to a statewide signature campaign aimed at identifying MLAs willing to take on leadership roles.

Manipur has been under President’s Rule since February 13, following the resignation of chief minister N. Biren Singh on February 9.

Ibomcha said the legislators urged the governor to take action against those blocking the free movement of goods and people along national highways, which continues despite directives from Union Home minister Amit Shah. They also raised the issue of armed miscreants who are allegedly threatening the Meitei community and urged for immediate measures to address the situation.