IMPHAL, Feb 25: Election Commission of India (ECI) has asked the State Government to provide security escorts to Irom Sharmila who will be contesting in the ensuing 11th State Legislative Assembly election on People’s Resurgence and Justice Alliance (PRJA) ticket.
It also asked the Government to submit a report on the efforts made to open the two National Highways within tomorrow
Sources said the direction was given during a video conference held this evening in the presence of Chief Secretary O Nabakishore, DGP LM Khaute, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Suresh Babu and CEO VK Dewagan.
Sharmila who fasted for 16 long years to demand repeal of Armed Forces Special Power Act (AFSPA), 1958 is contesting from Thoubal A/C, the home constituency of Chief Minister O Ibobi.
The video conference also discussed the prolonged blockage of Imphal-Dimapur road (National Highway-2) and steps taken up by the State Government to clear the highway.
The Government officials vividly apprised ECI about the escort of tankers and trucks loaded with essential items along Imphal-Jiribam road with the help of paramilitary forces.
Damage caused to the newly constructed Barak bridge today after 200 vehicles passed over it was also dscussed during the conference. According to the sources, the bridge suffered heavy damage just after a truck ferrying 600 cement bags weighing 42 metric tonne passed over it. The Government officials assured ECI that there is enough stock of fuel to be used for election purposes.
Source: The Sangai Express
