CCDD condemns Manipur minister for supporting dams

Shillong, July 8 (UNI) The Citizens' Concern for Dams and Development (CCDD) today condemned Manipur Irrigation and Flood Control Minister Nongthongbam Biren for insisting on the construction of Mapithel Dam.

In a release issued here, the CCDD stated that Mr Biren's insistence for speeding up the completion of the dam was a disregard to all democratic calls of re-considering and reviewing the dam.

''If his term as a minister begins with such insensitivities towards people's issues, including the promotion of NIT at Langol and Dolaithabi barrage, the people are likely to face further difficulties and an uncertain future,'' the anti-dams organisation said.

The CCDD believes that gaining public acceptance is essential for decisions on equitable and sustainable water and energy resources development and that acceptance should emerge from recognising the human rights and issues of the state and its people.

UNI