Manipur Works Minister Govindas Konthoujam, on Wednesday, rationalized the omission of Chief Minister N Biren Singh from the high-stakes security conclave orchestrated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday.
He articulated that the assembly was designated exclusively for executive officials, thereby excluding political figures. Consequently, Chief Minister Biren Singh was not summoned.
Govindas articulated this rationale during a press briefing held at the State BJP headquarters, situated in Nityaipat Chuthek, Imphal.
He elucidated that Security Advisor Kuldiep Singh, Chief Secretary Vineet Joshi, and the Director General of Manipur Police Rajiv Singh were the representatives of the state administration.
Kuldiep Singh holds the dual roles of Security Advisor to the Manipur government and Chairman of the Unified Command.
Responding to criticisms suggesting that the non-invitation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh constituted an affront to the populace of Manipur, Govindas emphasized that an understanding of the historical context of the ongoing turmoil in Manipur would justify the decision.
He further conveyed that the state government harbors robust confidence in the Modi 3.0 administration to restore peace and serenity in Manipur. To manage the current upheaval, 55 sensitive zones have been demarcated, with security personnel deployed at these locales. Adequate security measures will be reinforced in these sensitive zones where mutual distrust prevails, affirmed the Works Minister.
In the Modi 3.0 government’s 100-day strategic plan, Manipur is prioritized at serial number 5, and the state administration anticipates imminent positive developments, he added.
Govindas admonished those political actors exploiting the ongoing crisis for political advantage to desist forthwith. He insinuated that certain individuals desire the perpetuation of the current violence.
Minister Govindas also mentioned that the government is in discussions with the proprietors of oil tankers to facilitate the movement of oil tankers and LPG bullets via the NH-37 (Imphal-Silchar through Jiribam) route.
