IMPHAL: Assurances for repeal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), safeguarding territorial integrity of Manipur, bettering youth and economic policy and election reforms were agendas drawn by candidates in fray for the Inner Manipur Parliamentary constituency, at the second phase of the ‘Meet the Candidate’ interaction programme organized by Editors’ Guild, Manipur. The event was held under the sponsorship of Chief Electoral Office (CEO), Manipur at Hotel Classic here today. The first phase interaction programme for the Outer candidates was held on April 4.
With Yumnam Rupachandra, chief editor of IMPACT TV as the moderator, six candidates out of the total eight, were present at the event. INC candidate and sitting Lok Sabha MP, Dr. T. Meinya said that he had already promised and committed to the people of the state for the repeal of AFSPA ,1958 and safeguarding the territorial integrity of Manipur, to which he would fervently imply with his words.
On the other hand, CPI candidate, Dr. M. Nara stressed on the need to make electoral reforms in the state to prevent the occurrence of state maladies like corruption. He said that electoral reforms are a must in the state, as various forms of destruction has been caused due to the weak electoral system prevalent in the state.
Further, he stated that new economic policies would be framed for the state if he is successful at the upcoming election. Moreover, he promised to solve the prevailing conflicts in the state.
BJP candidate, RK Ranjan speaking on the occasion told that his party would extend full support towards the Meiteis' Scheduled Tribe (ST) Demand Committee seeking for the ST status of the Meiteis. The party would strive hard to meet the demand sought by the section of people, the BJP candidate added.
Independent candidate, Oinam Indira, on the other hand briefed the occasion on the fact that no single woman has been elected for the Inner Lok Sabha since the year 1951. Due to the non-election of women MPs from Manipur, women struggle hard to exercise their power, he said.
“Women from Manipur are still seeking for their rights in the form of women organizations or through individuals. But their rights are hardly, at times, heard and provided, the main reason being the lack of women MPs in the Parliament,” Indira added. She also stated that the repeal of AFSPA, 1958 and Women Vensdors’ Right are the two immediate acts which the women of Manipur seek.
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidate, Dr. Ibomcha spoke of uprooting discrimination faced by Indian citizens on grounds of social strata and race. He said the main agenda of the party is removal of corruption and framing a common man’s life for all.
Candidate Dr. G. Tonsana (MDPF) spoke about solving the conflict situations prevailing in the state so that social harmony can be restored in society. He stated that since power lies within the armed personnel, common men find it impossible to exercise their rights.
