IT News:
Imphal, April 5:
A coalition of sixteen civil society organizations in Manipur has urged Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla to order an immediate and thorough investigation into grave corruption allegations against Ng. Subhachandra Singh, the Managing Director of Manipur State Power Company Limited (MSPCL). The groups submitted a joint memorandum outlining accusations of bribery, abuse of power, and financial misconduct within the state-owned power company.
Citing a March 29, 2025 report by the Imphal Times titled “MSPCL MD Allegedly Takes Bribes from Around 250 Staff in Exchange for Promotion and Salary Increment”, the organizations claim that Singh demanded bribes ranging from ¹ 30,000 to ¹ 2 lakh from over 250 employees in return for promotions and salary hikes.
The memorandum notes that around 280 employees were promoted under suspicious circumstances. Although these individuals were eligible under normal criteria, the MD is accused of manipulating the process by selectively approving or delaying promotions using his discretionary authority. Further concerns were raised over the unexplained salary increments granted to 227 Watchman-Cum-Cleaning Assistants and 18 Computer Operators, pointing to possible misuse of financial powers.
According to the signatories, their independent inspection and inquiry uncovered substantial evidence corroborating the corruption charges. They allege that Subhachandra’s actions amount to a serious breach of public trust and a gross misuse of administrative authority.
In response, the civil society groups are demanding that the Governor initiate a high-level departmental inquiry into the matter. They also call for the immediate suspension of the officials involved, to ensure an impartial investigation free from interference or evidence tampering. The groups stress that those found guilty must face strict disciplinary and legal action to uphold accountability in public service.
With Manipur currently under President’s Rule, the organizations highlighted the importance of decisive leadership in addressing corruption—something they argue was long overlooked by past administrations. They cautioned that inaction could further erode public trust and encourage impunity at the highest levels of governance.
The memorandum requests a formal response within ten days, detailing the steps the Governor’s office will take to address the issue. Emphasizing the need for transparency, fairness, and accountability, the groups affirmed that the people of Manipur deserve integrity from those in positions of power.
The appeal was endorsed by representatives of numerous organizations, including All India Tanzem-E Omsaaf-Manipur, All Manipur Democratic Students Organisation, All Manipur Meitei Pangal Clubs’ Organisation, Apunba Awonba Manipur Amagidamak, Committee of Peaceful Coexistence, Manipur, Federal Students Organisation Kangleipak, Federation of Indigenous People’s Democratic Movement, Imagi Meira, Kangli People Against Narcotics & Psychotropic Substances, Manipur International Youth Centre, Meetei Meitei Tribe Union, Minorities Students’ Association, Nupi Union For Peace and Integrity, United Meitei Pangal Committee, Yelhoumee Phurup, and Youth Collective Manipur.
