Stir over demand to district status for Jiribam intensifies

Imphal, Dec 13 (UNI) Tension prevailed in Jiribam sub-division in Manipur bordering Asom following intensified agitation by local people demanding district status for Jiribam.

The Jiribam District Demand Committee and other mass organisations have joined the movement stopping vehicles on NH 53 and functioning of the government offices.

The JDDC also prevented election-related activity in the region as the state was gearing up for its 60-member Assembly elections, scheduled to be held early next year.

Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh had already announced that the Jiribam sub-division will be converted into a district adding that it was only a matter of time.

Official sources said there was also a demand for granting district status to Sadar hills of Senapati district.

The road blockade on the national highway has affected neighbouring Tamenglong district.

Meanwhile, the Zeliangrong Youth Front and the Church leaders have appealed to relax the barricade on the highway in view of the coming Christmas.

The Delimitation Commission had approved the upgradation of the Jiribam sub-division and the Manipur Cabinet had also agreed in principle to upgrade the district.

UNI NS PC RD SI RS1308