BJP using Government Schemes to secure votes in Kumbi AC – Shanjoy Ahanthem

Shanjoy Ahanthem has alleged that the Manipur Government’s Chief Minister’s Women Economic Empowerment Scheme and other developmental programmes are being misused in Kumbi Assembly Constituency to secure votes for the BJP ahead of the 13th Manipur Legislative Assembly elections.
Addressing media persons, Shanjoy alleged that BJP workers and supporters of the sitting MLA have been visiting localities across Kumbi AC and telling beneficiaries of the Chief Minister’s Women Economic Empowerment Scheme that they must display BJP flags and posters at their homes and vote for the BJP in order to continue receiving benefits under the scheme.
He alleged that women beneficiaries under Self-Help Groups were being threatened with denial of financial assistance if they failed to support the BJP. Similar allegations were also raised regarding beneficiaries associated with the Haotak Regional Pengba Seed Farm operating under the Fisheries Department at Haotak Patta.
Shanjoy termed the alleged actions as “corrupt electoral practices” and said they violate the secrecy and freedom of voting guaranteed to citizens. He urged the concerned departments to immediately clarify the matter if the allegations were false and demanded that authorities stop BJP workers from allegedly using government welfare schemes for political campaigning.
Claiming that the people are now fully aware of the nature of the upcoming 2027 Assembly elections, Shanjoy alleged that intimidation and coercion were being used to influence voters. He asserted that votes cannot be secured through threats, pressure or misuse of government schemes, but only through public trust and genuine service to the people.
He further alleged that there were fears of candidates backed by money generated through narco-related activities linked to Kuki militant groups entering the electoral process. Warning against the influence of money power in elections, Shanjoy said electing candidates allegedly backed by “Kuki narco terrorists” would pose a serious threat to Manipur’s future.
Appealing particularly to women voters and mothers, he urged the people to vote responsibly for candidates committed to protecting the integrity and future of Manipur rather than succumbing to monetary inducements or political pressure.