The President of India is likely to give his assent to the three ILPS Bills after minute examination of the validity and limitations of the indigenous protection Bills, said Chief Minister of Manipur, Okram Ibobi Singh, while addressing a gathering at the 146th Gandhi Jayanti celebration held today at Congress Bhavan, BT Road here.
Speaking to media persons, the Chief Minister said that after the State Assembly passed the Bills, the former Governor of Manipur had reserved the Bills for the President of India’s approval. It may take time but the President of India will give assent to the Bills after ensuring that it does not affect the interests of the people of both hill and valley.
In order to safeguard the holistic interest of the people of Manipur the President might consult with Home Ministry and other concern authorities, he added.
Regarding the prevailing unrest in hill areas, the Chief Minister said that the government has been inviting the apex bodies of hill based civil society organizations for meeting and to address their grievances through dialogue.
Even today, request has been made to Kuki Inpi for helping in bringing together all the bodies and convening a meeting.
In his reply to a question regarding the demand of Suspension of Operation (SoO) signatory Kuki underground groups, the CM said that creation of state within Manipur is not in the purview of the state government.
The government is ready to give the demands if it is reasonable, but will not compromise with the territorial integrity of the state, Ibobi asserted.
Regarding the recent appointment of Governor on additional charges, the CM said that the government has been urging the Centre to send a regular Governor considering the present law and order situation in the state. However, it is in the hands of the Centre to appoint a regular Governor for the state of Manipur.
Congressmen, who attended the function also pledged to follow the cleanliness policies of Gandhi.
