Loumi Kanglup Lamphel (LOUKAL) has accused the Manipur Polo and Horse Riding Association of misleading Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand regarding the proposed construction of a new international polo ground at Lamphel.
Addressing a press meet at his residence in Lamphel, Chongtham Bijoy, advisor of LOUKAL, alleged that the association had earlier attempted to pursue the same project during the period of President’s Rule in the state. According to him, the proposal was rejected by the then Governor due to unresolved land-related issues.
He contended that the land originally allotted to the association had subsequently been taken up for a water body project. He further alleged that the association is now attempting to utilise a neighbouring field under the pretext of developing an international polo ground.
Chongtham Bijoy also questioned the association’s priorities, stating that it has failed to adequately address concerns related to the feeding and reported missing cases of the Manipuri pony, a rare and endangered species of the state, while focusing instead on acquiring land.
He urged the Chief Minister to personally examine the matter to prevent further complications and informed that LOUKAL has prepared a memorandum on the issue, which will be submitted to the Chief Minister shortly.