Imphal, July 16: Member of Parliament (MP) from Manipur, Angomcha Bimol Akoijam has said that real peace in Manipur cannot be achieved unless all internally displaced persons (IDPs) are fully and properly rehabilitated.
Speaking to the media in Imphal on Wednesday, ahead of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, Bimol said, “Without complete rehabilitation of IDPs, the situation in Manipur cannot be said to be peaceful.”
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He pointed out that the government had announced plans to shut down all relief camps by December and to carry out rehabilitation of IDPs in three phases, starting this month. However, he warned that without a clear and strong policy, these efforts will not do justice to the thousands of people displaced by the conflict.
“The government’s step is welcome, but it must ensure that all IDPs are settled back in their original homes,” Bimol added.
He then criticized the restrictions on people’s movement within the state due to the so-called “buffer zones.” “These are not officially declared zones. They were temporary security measures created during the violence that began on May 3, 2023. But people are still unable to move freely, which is a violation of their constitutional rights,” he said.
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On the current President’s Rule in Manipur, in force since February 13, Bimol highlighted the suffering of many government employees who have not received salaries for months. He also alleged that several centrally sponsored schemes have not reached the people.
“If given the opportunity, I will raise all these matters in Parliament,” he said.
Commenting on reports of the possible extension of President’s Rule further, Bimol said, “If you can’t form a new popular government, then let’s go for fresh elections and let the people choose new representatives.”
(Newmai News Network)
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