Consequent upon no action taken up to compensate the affected land owners of Khongnem Thana village, Senapati district in spite of repeated queries and pleas, the affected parties along with the village authorities after thorough discussion decided to launch intense form of democratic agitations for non payment of land compensation if no concrete step is taken before 24 hours of June 10, 2021. This was announced in a press release signed by the chairman and secretary of Khongnem Thana village.
Briefing media persons, A. Peter Krechena, Secretary, Khongnem Thana village stated that a major Landslide at Khongnem Thana village along NH-2 took place on October 23, 2020 cutting off the main lifeline of the state Manipur. 4 consecutive days were cut off from going to and fro post the landslide.
Also read: After four days of total cut-off, NH-2 traffic resumes
Different officials comprising of Addl. Chief Secretary (Works), Govt of Manipur, Engineers of PWD and BIPL, District Administration led by the DC, Senapati held a meeting with the affected land owners on October 24, 2020 village chairman and others at Khongnem Thana village. Measurement of land and plots along with standing properties were done after the meeting that led to agreement to compensate the affected land to be given at the rate of Rs. 230/- per square feet. Evaluation of standing properties was also done on the next day, he said.
Also read: Massive landslide totally cuts off NH-2 in Senapati District
The state Govt representatives led by DC, Senapati reportedly gave assurance that the compensation will be given/released within the time frame of 45 (forty five) days starting from October 24, 2020. 185 (One hundred eighty five) days have lapsed since the stipulated time frame for 45 (forty five) days. Whereas, no communication/information has come from DC’s office or state Govt till filing of this report despite repeated enquiries and pleas made by the villagers. The Govt is 100% aware that NH-2 is the lifeline for Manipur state, the press release stated. The affected parties along with the village authorities have finally decided to launch intense form of agitations with no other means to address their grievances. Any untoward incident occurred from such agitations would be solely responsible by the state Govt.
According to villagers’ source, a temporary tent was made for different 5 affected families whose houses were reportedly dismantled in the new cutting for restoration of the highway above the landslide area. With the coming of the monsoon season, the villagers are worried how those families would survive in the rain without any compensation made so far.
In the larger interest of the public, the villagers request all the civil organisations of the district including the Naga People’s Organization (NPO), the Senapati District Students Association (SDSA), Senapati District Women’s Association (SDWA), Mao Students Union (MSU) and the Mao Council (MC) to extend their cooperation and support the cause of the affected land owners.
Also read: SDSA inspects landslide area; Appeals state govt for immediate restoration