Asem Bhakta Singh, Special Correspondent North East
Imphal: (Waari Singbul Network) Amidst the unceasing ethnic conflict besetting Manipur all ten Naga legislators of the state have urged chief minister N Biren Singh to appoint a new tribal affairs and hill minister.
Notably Kuki legislator Letpao Haokip , who won from Tengnoupal assembly constituency (AC) in Tengnoupal district in the last assembly election in March 2022, holds this portfolio meant for the welfare of the tribals of the state.
Letpao is one of the ten Kuki-Chin MLAs who are demanding a separate administration for their community in Manipur in the aftermath of the ethnic feud unfolded in the state on May 3, last year.
In a letter sent to Biren, the Naga legislators mentioned the difficulties faced by the innocent citizens due to unrest happening in the state.
“ In this crisis, we would like to appeal you to kindly look into the functioning of Tribal Affairs and Hills Department which has been rendered defunct due to absence” of the minister ( Letpao) for the last ten months, the letter lamented.
The ten Naga legislators are Awangbow Newmai ( Tamei), Khashim Vashum ( Chingai), Loshii Dikho ( Mao), N Kayisii ( Tadub), Leishiyo Keishing ( Phungyar), Janghemlung Panmei ( Tamenglong), SS Olish ( Chandel,), Ram Muivah ( Ukhrul), J Kumo Sha (Karong), and Dinganglung Gangmei ( Nungba).
“It is pertinent to point out that this department is becoming more crucial in this hour of crisis to look after the needs and development of tribals and hills areas of the state to bring over all-peace and progress in the state,” the letter continued
“Therefore, we would like to request you to appoint new Tribal Affairs and Hills Minister in-charge to look after the affairs of tribals and hills efficiently and effectively,” it said.
