IMPHAL, Imphal 26: Home minister Gaikhangam today denied media reports of NSCN (IM) having designated camps in the hill districts of Manipur.
He however hinted possibilities of ‘unofficial’ ones being positioned here.
Replying to a query from the media, he mentioned that the state government has no report about such camps.
“We have heard that there are some noted camps according to reports from the Army and Assam Rifles and we have intimated to the centre to take corrective action if such camps exists here”, he said.
Minister Gaikhangam stated that he required more time to rectify the needed changes in improving the law and order situation of the state. He took over as Home Minister on March 17 this year.
“I would require at least 3 months to assess the ground situation and to develop strategies for reforms in the police organization’, he told mediapersons at his official residence at Babupara this evening.
The vacancy of SP for Imphal West is another problematic issue, as the SPs are responsible for implementing the field work, he said.
Touching upon the recent child kidnapping issue he pointed out that, a red alert has been sounded to all police stations to prevent similar occurrences.
According to the minister, the issue has cropped up as there are very few left to join the ranks of the UGs, and hence they are kidnapping children to induct them to their outfits as child soldiers. He appealed the public to extend cooperation to the police in tackling the predicament.
Gaikhangam also gave his views regarding the Jessami incident. He mentioned that there are problematic state boundaries inclusive of Tungjoi, Dzuko and Jessami. These state areas bordering Nagaland have witnessed issues cropping up from time to time and the state fully acknowledges the situation.
He stated that those involved in assaulting the Jessami villagers have been arrested. As a preventive measure, the state government is planning to deploy a company of state security forces for posting at Jessami as soon as possible.
“The state cannot remain a mute spectator, we will intervene in the interest of the public and the state and seek central mediation if needed”, he added.
No differences with CM
Gaikhangam clarified that there is no conflict of interest between him and the Chief Minister regarding cabinet expansion.
He stated that the delay in is due to “overpopulation” and awarding portfolios is solely left to the wisdom of Okram Ibobi.
He maintained that such decisions need careful planning and there is no need for hurry.
“There is no time limit for expansion as such”, he said.
The minister hinted at possibilities of creation of parliamentary secretaries as a measure to appease the Congress MLAs. It was stated that there has to be a balanced distribution of the cabinet berths with respect to minorities, women, district wise etc. It may be mentioned that there has been no expansion of the government from March 16 and the present congress MLA numbers forty two.
