IMPHAL, May 16: Protests against the extension and expansion of Imphal (Tulihal) Airport continue.
The decision to take over the residential areas as well as the means of livelihood of the residents like fields, fish farming ponds will have serious impact, the concerned JAC said in a statement.
Residents of the area had earlier protested against the wrong policy of the government, resulting in the arrest of dozens of protesters and injuring many. The statement said the JAC will continue its agitation over the government’s plan and to fulfill its demands.
The demands include rehabilitation of the residents likely to be displaced by the proposed Imphal airport extension and expansion programme; proper arrangement for their livelihood and everything entitled in the land organization process should be given to them, besides a special package for the residents.
Contrarily to the demands raised by the JAC, the government instead has started wall fencing work in the area for the purpose, it said and added that such move is against the wishes of the residents.
The JAC also urged the government to resolve the issue in an amicable manner, pledging it will not allow further work of wall fencing in the area until and unless an agreement is reached with the government.
Stringent action will be taken up against all the contractors and laborers who are being engaged in the wall fencing work if they do not stop it immediately, the JAC warned.