IT News
Imphal, Jan. 7
Chief Minister N. Biren Singh said that the government is committed to protect the indigenous population of the State. This was stated by him at the 45th Foundation Day of the Manipur Press Club held at its complex at Majorkhul Imphal on Monday.
Speaking as Chief Guest of the function, Chief Minister stated that there is a provision in the Inner Line Permit system (ILPS) that gives the State government an inherent power to relax any of the guidelines at its discretion. He also mentioned that it also provides a power to any doubt or issues not addressed in the guidelines be vested with the Home Department whose decision shall be final.
Clarifying the apprehensions of the people, Chief Minister mentioned that the registration counters for providing ILP to non-locals have been opened at various areas and police stations. He mentioned that various camps will be organised in hill districts of the State soon. Computerized registration system for ILPS would be introduced soon to overcome any hassle, he added. The government welcomes any positive suggestion and advice from the people for proper implementation of ILPS in the State, he added.
Chief Minister appealed to the Civil Societies not to indulge in the implementation process of ILPS rather they should inform the government authorities or law enforcing agencies like police for smooth implementation of the system. He urged the people to extend their support and cooperation for smooth implementation of ILPS in the State.
Highlighting the genealogy of the Inner Line Permit system in the North-Eastern States, Chief Minister said that unlike previous governments, the present Central government has transformed the dreams into reality of the people of Manipur by extending ILP system in the State.
Addressing various issues faced the media fraternity, Chief Minister mentioned that journalists, newspaper hawkers are covered under CHMT scheme and the State Cabinet has also approved to increase the pension amount from Rs. 4000/- to Rs. 8000/- per month for retired journalists of the State.
Minister for Information & Public Relations, Th. Biswajit said that media must play a constructive role towards bringing development in the region. Media, the fourth pillar of democracy, has the responsibility to act as a watchdog to protect public interests against injustice, unfairness and corruption in our society, he added. Speaking about the fake news in the age of new media, the Minister mentioned that journalists and media houses must uphold their accountability and credibility.
During the occasion, Chief Minister launched the official website of All Manipur Working Journalists Union (AMWJU) www.amwju.org and also released a Souvenir. Former Secretaries of Manipur Press Club were also felicitated on the occasion.
Member of Parliament Dr. R.K. Ranjan, Director IPR H. Balkrisna, President Editors Guild Khogendra Khomdram, President AMWJU Bijoy Kakchingtabam, members of Manipur Press Club and others also attended the function.
