The Movement for People’s Rights Forum, Manipur (MPRFM) on Friday expressed discontentment over the alleged unlawful conduct of CAF&PD government officials and few transport contractors in distribution of monthly rice quotas under PMGKAY in Noney district, Manipur and appealed to the state government for immediate intervention.
MPRFM Convener Gonmei Kuripuu claimed that no monthly rice quotas under PMGKAY have been distributed for a period of six months, i.e. July and November of 2023, followed by the months of February, March, April and May of 2024. It lamented that the concerned department has also allegedly failed to fulfil the demands despite several appeals.
It noted that the Central government under the leadership of PM Modi had decided to provide free food grains to about 81.35 crore beneficiaries under PMGKAY for a period of five years with effect from January 1, with an aim to ensuring food and nutrition security at an estimated cost of Rs 11.80 lakh crore over a five-year period.
The release also mentioned various welfare schemes and policies initiated under the leadership of CM Biren including CMHT, MEEYAM GI NUMIT, HILLS LEADERS DAY etc, which aims to bring prosperity and development in the state, along with the noble idea to bridge the gap between the hills and valley.
However, in contradiction to such objectives and commitment of both the central and state governments, few officials of the CAF& PD, Government of Manipur in connivance with few transport contractors are indulging in unlawful practices whereby large quantities of rice entitled to the beneficiaries are sold at black market, mainly in Tamenglong and Noney (Longmai) districts, thereby depriving the basic rights of the beneficiaries, it alleged.
It went on to say that there are reports of alleged inequitable distribution and favouritism in the allocation of benefits and lamented that such has led to further frustration and disillusionment among those who are in dire need of assistance. It pointed out the plights facing many low-income families, senior citizens, persons with disabilities owing to such misconduct amid hard times due to the prevailing conflict.
It urged immediate strict actions against the indulged government officials and transport contractors as per the law of the land as well as reinstate and ensure the uninterrupted functioning of the PMGKAY scheme within a stipulated period of 1 week before the matter escalates into a larger crisis.
It further warned that the people will launch democratic protests and agitations if the authorities concerned failed to act swiftly and decisively in fulfilling their demands.
