IT News
Imphal, July 23:
Residents of the Kshetrigao constituency are protesting the eight-month delay in the distribution of rice under the National Food Security Act (NFSA). The rice distribution, which has been on hold since November 2023, has caused distress among the beneficiaries.
Sheikh Noorul Hassan, the Manipur Legislative Assembly representative from Kshetrigao, has been vocal about the issue. He revealed that despite assurances from Chief Minister N. Biren Singh that the problem would be resolved within two months, no action has been taken. Sheikh Noorul Hassan had multiple discussions with the District Supply Officer (DSO) and other officials, but the distribution remained stalled.
Following the recent Lok Sabha elections, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) cited the model code of conduct as a reason for further delays. The DC assured that fair price shops would be selected once the code was lifted. A fair price shop, Shop No. 93, was eventually appointed, but distribution issues persisted, with discrepancies in the number of beneficiaries reported.
Yesterday, the DC issued a backdated order sanctioning a two-month rice quota for unloading at the newly appointed fair price shop. However, Sheikh Noorul Hassan emphasized that six months’ worth of rice is still pending. He called for urgent intervention from the Chief Minister to ensure the complete distribution of the rice quota.
“The public protest is a result of the prolonged inaction. If our demands are not met, we will escalate our protests,” warned Sheikh Noorul Hassan. He also expressed concerns about the administrative committee appointments, alleging lack of consultation and the involvement of individuals with criminal backgrounds.