Controversial Recognition of Manipur Hill Villages Sparks Debate

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh criticised past recognition of hill villages by officials without state approval. Such villages now face exclusion from government amenities. Urging adherence to the Indian Forest Acts, Singh highlighted deforestation issues and called for responsible governance for wildlife preservation.

In a recent statement, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh condemned the unauthorized recognition of hill villages by officials, who, wielding powers beyond their authority, had bypassed state government approval. Singh announced that these villages would now be excluded from receiving government services, a move aimed at rectifying past administrative oversights.

The Chief Minister's remarks were made during a gathering on the 70th Wildlife Week Celebration, where he stressed the importance of adhering to the Indian Forest Acts and constitutional provisions. He emphasized the need for political and bureaucratic sincerity to preserve the state's wildlife and forests, pointing to deforestation as a major environmental challenge.

Singh further urged hill villagers to surrender hunting weapons to aid in wildlife protection and raised concerns about Loktak Lake, which faces threats from encroachment. He warned that these environmental challenges could have severe impacts, including rising temperatures within the state, if not addressed promptly.

(With inputs from agencies.)