Ukhrul: Many government offices in Ukhrul are short-staffed due to the recent violence following May 3 as employees from other parts of the State returned home.
As the crisis unfolds, in the absence of government employees from the valley has led to significant disruption in the functioning of various governmental departments.
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The manager, Punjab National Bank, Komuni Sapriina, who is from Senapati, informed that their bank branch had a total of six staffs of which four of them are Meiteis. The head cashier, SWO and sub-staff left on May 3, while the deputy manager left a few days later leaving the bank unable to fully function from May 8.
Despite the lack of staff, the manager, along with their maintenance staff are running the bank providing regular banking services such as checking balance, statement, and ATM card related issues are available. However, there are complaints on withdrawal of cash by customers for emergency use, given the prevailing circumstances. “We need at least two staff in the system for the bank to function”, said Sapriina.
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The manager had given the status to the higher authority in the circle office located at Imphal. They are expecting the problem to resolved by next working week.
While in other PNB branch, 50 per cent of the staff in Ukhrul have left town due to the prevailing crisis. This shortage has affected multiple sectors, including administration, revenue, health, education, and public services, creating a backlog of pending work.
Furthermore, the healthcare sector has been severely affected with hospitals and health centers struggling to operate at full capacity.
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Ukhrul District Hospital has 14 authorised Medical Officers. As of now only 7 are posted. While there is a shortfall of 7 MO at present, three Meitei MO have returned to Imphal due to the prevailing situation.
Dr Reisangmi Raikhan, Medical Superintendent informed that by next week, the remaining 7 MO names on leave will be included in the roster, wherein failing to report for duty will face strict action.
Efforts are being made by the government to address the staff shortages and mitigate the impact on public services.
As the Manipur crisis continues to unfold, the shortage of staff in Ukhrul government offices remains a significant challenge. The district administration, alongside the state government is working tirelessly to address the situation and minimize the impact on public services, with the hope of restoring stability and normalcy in the region, an official said.
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