IT News
Imphal, Aug 12:
MLA Leishiyo Keishing today raised serious concerns over the creation of Kangpokpi district, highlighting the contentious history and ongoing dissatisfaction among the affected communities. Moving a calling attention motion, in the 6th session of the 12 Manipur Legislative Assembly Keishing pointed out that the formation of Kangpokpi district, formerly known as SADAR Hills, was carried out despite several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) signed between the Indian government and the affected parties. These agreements, according to Leishiyo Keishing, were disregarded in the process.
He recounted the long history of the demand for district status, which dates back to the 1970s. He stressed that multiple assurances had been given by the central government to consult all stakeholders before making any decisions. However, he argued that the creation of the district was done without proper consultation, leaving many communities feeling ignored and sidelined.
One of the critical issues Leishiyo Keishing highlighted is the geographical inconvenience faced by residents of Kangpokpi district. In some areas, people have to pass through two or three other districts to reach the district headquarters, raising questions about the logic behind the district’s boundaries. He noted that while the official reason given for the district’s creation was administrative convenience, the reality on the ground suggests otherwise.
Responding to Leishiyo Keishing’s concerns, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh acknowledged the flaws in the district’s formation. He stated that although the district was officially created for administrative reasons, it was, in fact, driven by political interests. “It is not for administrative convenience but for political interest,” Biren Singh admitted. He further emphasized that this was a mistake made in the past, and the issues surrounding the district’s creation need to be addressed to prevent further discontent.
He also expressed concern that many people view the district as being ethnically based, which he described as unfortunate. “People don’t consider themselves as Manipuri first,” he remarked, identifying this as a chronic problem in the state. He further warned that some believe the district belongs to one ethnicity, leading to fears that this group might start collecting taxes from others. “This is worrying,” he said, highlighting the potential for ethnic tensions.
In light of these issues, CM N Biren called for a reorganization of district boundaries based on genuine administrative convenience, rather than political or ethnic considerations. He emphasized the need for this process to be conducted in consultation with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to ensure that all voices are heard and that the resulting boundaries are fair and practical.
