CM appeals for peace, seeks support of people

Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has made a fervent appeal to the people of the State to give peace a chance and to trust and have confidence in the Government of India and Government of Manipur to bring normalcy in the State.

Biren Singh was addressing a media briefing at the Darbar Hall, Chief Minister's Secretariat this late afternoon.

Further in his briefing, the Chief Minister highlighted a slew of steps to be taken up in the State as part of the efforts to bring peace and normalcy in the State.

He said the government is not silent and has been working towards bringing normalcy in the State. Ministers, MLAs and officials were working towards evacuation of affected persons, setting up of relief camps, providing security, etc.

It is an unprecedented instance when a Union Home Minister has stayed in a State for three days and that an Union Minister of State has stayed for more than 16 days monitoring and taking stock of the situation in the State, the Chief Minister highlighted.

He continued that under the supervision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Centre has already sanctioned a Rs. 100 crore (approx.) package for necessary immediate relief along with 30,000 MT rice for distribution to the affected people. The government is also trying to provide all essential items to the people, he added.

Now that a Judicial Commission has been constituted, it will not be long before we find out the truth on how the violence erupted in the State, the Chief Minister continued.

Biren Singh said with the monsoon already arriving in the State, the State cabinet today thoroughly discussed certain issues including education of children in relief camps. The government will also facilitate provision of documents such as Aadhar, Bank Passbook, insurance, CMHT card, etc, lost during the unfortunate incidents, he added.

The cabinet has also decided to identify locations where pre-fabricated houses can be installed to rehabilitate those staying in relief camps, and who are unable to return to their original homes. At the same time, those who are willing to return to their own homes, which were damaged during the unfortunate incidents, will also be provided assistance through housing schemes and One Family One Livelihood Scheme, he added.

The Chief Minister also said that a 'No work, no pay' system will be enforced for the government officials, and stressed that those unable to physically attend office may do so through e-office.

Biren Singh also appealed to all against being driven by emotion and acting in violent manners.

Let's leave violence and allow the rule of law to prevail, the Chief Minister said, further seeking cooperation and support of the people. He added that the Centre has repeatedly assured that the State's territorial integrity will not be disturbed and will not allow Separate Administration in the State. He reiterated that the State government is committed towards safeguarding the State's integrity and that the government will never compromise on this issue.