Imphal: During the fourth day of the 5th Session of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly, Chief Minister N Biren Singh revealed that 213 individuals lost their lives during the violence that erupted on May 3 last year.
Responding to queries raised by MLA K Ranjit Singh, Biren said that out of these casualties, 198 were civilians, including 20 women and 8 children. He further stated that ex-gratia payments have been disbursed to 114 victims, with the remaining cases undergoing verification before distribution.
Regarding the identification of weapons used by militants, the Chief Minister emphasised the sensitivity of the matter and refrained from disclosing details in the House.
Responding to another query from MLA Th Lokeshwar Singh, CM N Biren Singh emphasised that the deployment of state forces is contingent upon ground realities rather than constituency-wise considerations.
The Chief Minister also informed the House that as of February 27, 6746 illegal Myanmarese immigrants were detected, with 259 repatriated after verification and biometric recording.
Addressing concerns raised by MLA K Meghachandra regarding pending pension disbursements, CM Biren Singh assured that the outstanding amount of Rs 859.36 crore would be settled by August 2024.
Regarding the delay in holding Urban Local Body elections, MAHUD Minister Y Khemchand attributed the postponement to the Covid-19 pandemic, High Court directives, and the prevailing crisis in Manipur. The election schedule remains undecided.
During the session, MLA Ram Muivah raised concerns about reported blockades on the Imphal – Ukhrul Road, while MLA Kh Joykisan highlighted issues with the Har Ghar Jal Scheme in his constituency.
Two Calling Attention Motions were tabled in the House, with MLA Th Arunkumar urging the Chief Minister to consider waiving loans for Meetei Tribe Union members, and MLA Surjakumar Okram drawing attention to the state’s deteriorating economy amid ongoing violence.
Responding to these motions, CM N Biren Singh outlined relief measures for borrowers in accordance with RBI guidelines, including a 12-month moratorium. Additionally, he disclosed that the Central Government had sanctioned Rs 400.42 crore in financial assistance, with Rs 203.22 crore already disbursed.
Regarding internally displaced persons (IDPs), CM Biren Singh reported the existence of 320 relief camps, with efforts underway to ensure their basic needs are met and dignity restored. Plans are in place to relocate IDPs from community halls to more suitable accommodations by May 2024.
Health cards such as CMHT and PMJAY have been issued to IDPs, with further provisions for unmet healthcare needs underway. Notably, the government has provided assistance to affected households, including free school supplies for children and financial aid via the Labour department.
Under the Manipur Relief and Recovery Fund, Rs 10,000 is allocated for cremation expenses, with additional funds earmarked for healthcare assistance.
CM Biren Singh disclosed the establishment of a reconciliation team under the Chairmanship of HAC, Dinganglung Gangmei, aimed at fostering peace and normalcy in the state through dialogue with dissenting members.
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In legislative matters, Leader of the House N Biren Singh introduced and successfully passed three bills related to place naming, GST amendments, and fiscal responsibility and budget management. Additionally, Minister Y Khemchand Singh’s bill on municipal amendments and Minister H Dingo Singh’s bill on labour laws were also passed.
Minister Th Basanta Kumar Singh’s bill pertaining to the prevention of malpractices in high school leaving certificate and higher secondary examinations was also approved by the House.
Also Read | Manipur Assembly passes Bill to curb unauthorized renaming of places