Asem Bhakta Singh, Special Correspondent North East
Imphal: (Waari Singbul Network) Despite Manipur grappling with ongoing ethnic strife for over ten months, Chief Minister N Biren Singh asserted on Sunday that development initiatives must press forward, acknowledging the adverse impact on the populace across various domains.
Addressing the challenging circumstances, CM Biren, who also oversees the home portfolio, commended the resilience of the youth and women in the face of adversity. He emphasized the pivotal role of hard work and dedication in achieving progress in all sectors.
Speaking at the launch of the construction of a natural grass football ground in Lamlai, Imphal East district, Biren stated, “Development works need to be continued, although the State has been passing through a rough phase.”
Acknowledging the unity among the state’s indigenous population against forces attempting to disrupt communal harmony, Biren urged citizens not to disrupt the movement of vehicles and people, emphasizing the long-standing coexistence.
The football ground is part of several projects for Manipur, with their foundation stones laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi via video conferencing on Saturday. Under the “Vikshit Bharat Vikshit North East” program in Itanagar, Modi unveiled projects worth Rs 55,600 crore for six northeast states, including Manipur. Projects totaling around Rs 3500 crore were initiated and foundation stones laid for Manipur.
“Of the important projects for which the foundation stones were laid, the construction of Football Grass with Natural Grass at Lamlai was also included, and so the state government has decided to commence the construction work today,” affirmed Biren.
Since its formation in 2017, Biren’s government has been committed to preserving the historical and sacred places of the state. Security forces have been deployed at foothill areas to prevent tensions, the CM noted.
Expressing gratitude to Union Home Minister Amit Shah for addressing the crisis in the state and his parliamentary discourse on its causes, Biren highlighted his government’s relentless efforts to ensure the security and safety of the state and its people.
He also appreciated the support and guidance from Central leaders, citing the implementation of measures such as the Inner Line Permit System (ILPS), Border Fencing, and Suspension of Free Movement Regime.
