Imphal: Governor of Manipur La Ganesan has said he will urge the Centre to withdraw the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA) if there is overall improvement of the law and order situation in the state.
On the first day of his two-day visit to Ukhrul and Kamjong districts, the Governor was speaking to the locals at a community interaction programme held at Nungbi Khullen Public Ground, under Chingai Sub-division of Ukhrul District.
Governor Ganesan said that with the improvement of law and order situation in some areas of the state, disturbed area status had been withdrawn from the state. “If there is complete peace and tranquility in rest of the state in the coming days, then I will urge the Centre to completely withdraw the same,” he said.
The Governor further said that there are certain issues which need to be addressed immediately. “Some issues are local and is the concern of the state government. I will ask the Chief Minister to take prompt action on such issues,” the Governor said.
Insisting people to co-operate with the state government, especially in four different aspects, the Governor added, “Firstly, all citizens should at least enrolled for Aadhar Card. All need to open bank accounts to get the benefits of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).”
He added that all have to be vaccinated with COVID-19 vaccines as it will help fight the pandemic.
Stating that cross-border smuggling activities, including drugs, are becoming a tough challenge these days, Ganesan urged the people to co-operate with the government in fencing works in the border areas once the works begin.
Earlier, Tangkhul Civil Society Organisations, during an interaction with the Governor, urged to remove AFSPA completely from the state. The CSOs also submitted four memorandums to the Governor in this regard.
Besides, they appealed to the Governor to exempt the northeast region from the imposition of Hindi language.
Krishna Kumar (IAS), Deputy Commissioner, Ukhrul, Saujanya Singh (IPS), SP, Ukhrul, District Level Officers and villagers greeted the Governor on his arrival at Nungbi Khullen Village.
Cultural songs and dances were presented. The Governor also inspected the famous Nungbi pottery of the village.
During his maiden visit, the Governor was accompanied by his Secretary Bobby Waikhom.
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