Strong opposition in Manipur to acquiring land for NIT

Imphal, Apr 25 (UNI) Several organisations in Manipur have opposed the decision of the government to acquire land at Kyamgei Loukon, Imphal, to construct the National Institute of Technology (NIT).

The All Manipur United Clubs Organisation (AMUCO) said fertile land should not be 'sacrificed' to construct buildings.

It, however, said the government could construct the institute in any other place, but not in the area as it was very fertile.

The Centre for Organisation and Research and Education(CORE) and other organisations too urged the state government to consult the people before initiating construction work of NIT at Kyamgei.

CORE convener Akinson said the government "has the habit of forcing out people using brute force". Rather than constructing the complex in the fertile valley it would be better to construct the institute in the hilly areas, he opined.

''The SPF government, led by Mr O Ibobi Singh, will be heading for a direct conflict with the people in case it refuses to pay heed to the vehement protests,'' he said.

UNI