The House assembled at 11.00 am. of Thursday, the 7th August, 2003 in the Assembly Hall with the Hon’ble  Speaker in the Chair. 

MEMBERS  PRESENT: 

            Hon’ble Chief Minister, 25 Cabinet Ministers, Chairman (Hill Areas Committee),   Hon’ble Deputy Speaker, 9 Ministers of State and 21Elected Members. 

QUESTIONS: 

            (a)        In reply to Starred Question No. 516, asked by Shri S. Gopal Singh, MLA regarding the delay in the inauguration of Masemlok Water Supply, the Hon’ble MOS                         (PHED) made a reply. 

            (b)        In reply to Starred Question No. 517, asked by Shri L. Ibomcha Singh, MLA regarding the 
                        construction of urinal/toilet at Borayangbi Primary School, the Hon’ble Minister, 
                        Education (S) gave a reply.
                                   

            (c)        In reply to Starred Question No. 518, asked by Shri I. Hemochandra Singh, MLA  regarding 
                        the appointment of Supervisors in Adult Education Department,  the Hon’ble Minister (SCERT)
                        made a reply. 

            (d)        In reply to Starred Question No. 519, asked by Shri L. Ibomcha Singh, MLA regarding the construction of Water Reservoir of Haobam Marak, the Hon’ble                         MOS (PHED) gave a reply. 

            (e)        In reply to Starred Question No. 520,  asked by Shri L. Tomba Singh, MLA regarding the 
                        Water Supply Scheme at Thoubal Moijing,  the Hon`ble MOS (PHED)  made a reply. 

            Answers to Unstarred Question No. 35, 36 and 37 were laid on the Table as written replies. 

ZERO - HOUR: 

            Dr. Nimaichand Luwang, MLA raised a matter regarding the arrest of Nongmaithem Muhindro S/O N. Ningthemjao Singh of Kakching Mayai Leikai, Turel Achouba by suspected Assam Rifles personnel without arrest memo. The whereabouts of the person was not yet known, he said. He drew the attention of the  Chief Minister to take up necessary steps. 

NOTICE OF BREACH OF PRIVILEGE: 

             The Hon`ble Speaker announced that he received a notice of a Breach of Privilege jointly submitted by S/Shri L. Ibomcha Singh and S. Ibohal Singh, MLAs. He asked the Hon`ble Members to make a statement. 

            Shri L. Ibomcha Singh, MLA read out a news item from the 30th June, 2003 edition of Huiyen Lanpao which published a report of the Social Environment Development Organisation, Thanga reflecting on the working of the House Committee constituted to examine the alleged mismanagement / misappropriation of DRDA fund in respect of Bishnupur District. He said that the allegation was made before the Report of theHouse Committee was presented to the House, which was made only on 25th July, 2003. He said that the act of criticism on the decision of the House and its Committees lowered the dignity of the august House and cast serious reflections in performing Parliamentary Functions by the Members of the august House. He expressed the opinion that the case was a serious breach of Privilege and contempt of the House. 

            Dr. Nimaichand Luwang, MLA suggested that the matter be referred to the Committee of Privileges for a detailed examination. 

            Shri S. Ibohal Singh, MLA drew the attention of the House and said that the information might have been leaked either from the Assembly Secretariat or the office of the concerned Minister. He wanted to refer the matter to the Committee of Privileges for a thorough examination. 

            The House agreed to refer the matter to the Committee of Privileges and the Hon’ble Speaker referred it to the Committee of Privileges. 

CALLING ATTENTION: 

            Shri I. Hemochandra Singh, MLA called the attention of MAHUD Minister on the alleged allotment of plots in Linthoingambi Bazar(New Market ). 

            He said that the matter was published in the major local newspaper on August 4, 2003. He informed the House that around 2000 women vendors were keeping vigil at night against the proposed plan to construct a new market complex at present. Despite the false promises made to the women vendors and the general public, 176 plots had already been allotted. He said that three chairpersons of the Imphal Municipal Council were involved in it and said that actions should be taken against them. He wanted immediate rectification of the matter and said that the Minister should apologize to the women vendors. 

            Shri L. Nandakumar Singh, Minister (MAHUD) replying to the motion said that following a resolution passed by the Imphal Municipal Council on 12th June, 2000 to convert the Khwairamband Bazar into a three storeyed pucca building, the allotment of one 176 plots were made by three different Chairpersons of IMC. After the matter was brought to his notice, the cancellation order was issued on 6th August, 2003. Regarding the proposed construction of the Market Complex, his intention was to remove congestion and modernise the Bazar area and not for any vested interests, he said and added that the features of the Nupi Keithel would be preserved. 

            Hon’ble Chief Minister, Shri O. Ibobi Singh observed that the discussion was made at the right time He questioned the concerned Minister why the matter was not brought to his notice earlier. He said that proper action must be taken against the officers and the Chairpersons involved in the allotment. He expressed the need for an immediate enquiry by a proper forum.  

            Shri I. Hemochandra Singh, MLA mover of the motion appreciated the Chief Minister for his unbiased statement. He made a clarification that he had no intention to instigate the women vendors. 

            Chief minister, Shri O. Ibobi Singh suggested that since it was a common issue, a House Committee be constituted to examine the matter. 

            Shri R.K. Dorendra Singh, MLA said that a House Committee would be the  appropriate forum to conduct a thorough enquiry. 

            Hon’ble Speaker recommended the following Members of the proposed House Committee to investigate the illegal allotment in Linthoingambi Bazar (New Market) and some other areas. 

            1.         Shri L. Nandakumar Singh, Minister (MAHUD)           -           Chairman;

            2.         Shri P. Parijat Singh, Minister (FCS)                             -           Member;

            3.         Shri Gaikhangam, Minister (Works)                              -           Member;

            4.         Shri I. Hemochandra Singh, MLA                                -           Member; and

            5.         Shri M. Bhorot Singh, MLA                                         -           Member.
 

The House agreed.           

DISCUSSION  AND  VOTING  ON  DEMANDS  FOR  GRANTS, 2003-2004: 

Shri O. Ibobi Singh, Chief Minister moved Demand No. 35- Stationery and Printing, Demand No. 40- Irrigation and Flood Control Department, Demand No. 41- Arts and Culture and Demand No. 42- State Academy of Training for discussion. The Demands were clubbed for a joint discussion. 

            Shri M. Bhorot Singh, MLA moving cut motions expressed the importance of IFCD and stressed the need to take up concrete plan in order to control flood, which caused irreparable damage to life and property. Various minor and major Projects were launched since 1984, but unfortunately due to lack of initiatives by the IFCD the projects were not yet implemented properly. He also highlighted the lack of proper drainage system in urban areas resulting in flood during the rainy season. He sought clarification regarding the non-utilisation of funds and improper implementation of ongoing projects. He drew the attention of the Minister regarding the acquisition of pattaland by the Government during President`s Rule as part of the Nambul River Flood Control Project, Phase-I for which no due compensation was given despite the Hon`ble Gauhati High Court`s order. He drew the attention of the Arts & Culture Minister expressing apprehension on the disappearance of the original form of Jatrawali, which reflected the culture of the state. He wanted the Cultural Policy framed by the Department of Arts & Culture to be introduced soon. He also expressed the need to preserve the Lainingthou Malem Anganba SanamahiWangoi Laipham  and other such Laikons. 

            Shri S. Chandra Singh, MLA moving a cut motion criticised the IFCD for improper implementation and delay in completion of works. He said that the Department was also a factor of the present financial constraints. Quoting the Chief Minister’s statement that no funds would be granted for canal construction, he expressed that it was unfortunate. The present deteriorating condition of all the roads at Andro, was due to the construction works of the projects, he said. He further highlighted the inconveniences faced by the people of Andro and sought a clear-cut reply from the Minister. 

            Dr. Nimaichand Luwang, MLA moving cut motions suggested that Irrigation should be amalgamated with Minor Irrigation Dept. and Flood Control should be made a separate Department. He said that the projects launched by the IFCD, inspite of huge investments did not bring satisfactory results. Imphal River, Iril River and Thoubal River which caused havoc in the valley districts should be given due attention, he added. Regarding the recurrent flood in Imphal, it was due to the rampant encroachment of khasland by the people, he observed. He said that the irregularities regarding the seniority list of IFCD Engineers should be rectified. He drew the attention of the Arts & Culture minister regarding the establishment of a Cultural University and wanted a copy of the proposed Cultural Policy to be placed in the House. He expressed the need to frame an Umang Lai Policy under the Ancient Historical Monument Act to prevent further disputes arising out of it. 

The Hon’ble Speaker adjourned the House at 1.10 pm. till 2.10 pm. of the day. 

The afternoon Session resumed at 2.15 pm.   

            Shri S. Ibohal Singh, MLA moving a cut motion charged the Government that it didn’t properly implement the various schemes and projects under IFCD and added that immediate steps should be taken to implement Dolaithabi, Thoubal and Singda Dam Projects. Highlighting the importance of Arts and Culture in preserving the rich cultural heritage of a society, he pointed out the failure of the Dept.. in framing a Cultural Policy of Manipur. For promoting the Culture of Manipur, schemes and funds should be earmarked for the Manipuris living outside manipur, he mentioned. He expressed concern over the failure of the Department to complete the construction of INA Memorial Complex, Moirang and charged that the Dept. had delayed its construction works. He also expressed the apprehension that the funds sanctioned under 9th and 10th Finance Commission award for the construction of INA complex had been misutilised.  

            Shri O. Joy Singh, MLA moving a cut motion expressed the desire to wind up Stationery & Printing Dept. saying that it had little importance these days. Regarding IFCD, he said that flood management wasnot properly maintained and suggested that proper master plan for the protection of rivers should be formulated. He pointed out the failures of the Department to implement various drainage schemes like Naga drainage, Chandranadi, Nambul, Waishel Maril etc. Highlighting various dams and projects, he said that Imphal Barrage Project was not functioning properly and wanted to increase its height and to take up renovation work. Thoubal Barrage Project and Khuga Dam Project should be completed very soon, he said and added that a physical target of this project should be maintained. On Arts and Culture Dept.. he stressed the need to frame a Cultural Policy of Manipur. Legislation should also be made in this regard, he added. For bringing cultural integration, artists from hills should be encouraged to take part in Manipur films, he asserted. He further said that the Government’s plan for the construction of Multi Cultural Complex should be implemented very soon. Film Festivals should be organised regularly to encourage the artist and film awards should be given for the promotion of films, he added.  

            Shri Ningthoujam Biren, MLA moving a cut motion said that due to deforestation in the hills, the rivers became shallow resulting to frequent floods in the State. River bunds should be strengthened and the Government should frame a policy for fighting floods, he stated. He flayed the IFCD that the Dept.. didn’t maintain proper drainage schemes in Imphal. He expressed concern over the Thoubal barrage, Imphal barrage, Singda Dam etc. and added that the embankment areas under the project should be properly maintained.  

            Shri L. Ibomcha Singh, MLA moving cut motions pointed out the irregularities in the IFCD and said that the Dept.. had failed to pay salary to the regular employees. The promotion line of the employees were not clearly demarcated, he expressed and wanted to streamline the Dept.. He wanted the Government to apprise the Centre for immediate implementation of Waishel Maril Project and added that Waishel Maril Drainage Scheme must be completed as soon as possible. Regarding Arts and Culture Department, he drew the attention of the Minister to frame a Cultural Policy and wanted to finalise it very soon.  

            Shri N. Sovakiran Singh, MLA participated in the Demand discussion and drew the attention of the IFCD Minister to implement Wangjing River Project. He charged the Minister for not implementing the Project in time and wanted a clarification in this respect. 

            Shri Francis Ngajokpa, Minister, in-charge of Stationery and Printing replying to demand discussion said that the Department of Printing and Stationery had been printing gazettes, extra ordinary gazettes, ballot papers, official papers and books of different Depts. He appealed all the defaulting Departments to clear the pending dues to enable the Department to function properly. Clarifying to the query of Shri O. Joy Singh, he informed the House that the Dept. could earn more revenues than the actual target. He also said that the Dept. would be modernised to adapt to the changing trend and appealed to all the Departments to use the services of the Government Press for all their official requirements.  

            Shri N. Mangi Singh, Minister (IFCD) replying to the demand discussion gave a break up of the allocated fund for IFCD and said that the actual fund for development work was very limited. In order to check the constant occurrence of flood in the State, he emphasised the need to build new dams and embankments as well as to complete the ongoing schemes and projects. He also pointed out the problem of siltation of Loktak lake and the disappearance of water bodies. He also highlighted the formulation of a master plan which had been submitted to WAPCOS. He further highlighted the several projects and schemes being prepared and sent for sanctioning to the Ministry of Water Resources and Central Water Commission. He also informed the House that several drainage development project like Waishel Drainage Project, Chandranadi Drainage Project etc. would be completed. The Manipur Flood Plain Zoning Act 1978 and Assam Embankment and Drainage Act would be implemented in the State. He further cited the various anti- erosion works being taken up in the hill districts. He also explained the reasons for the failure of Singda Dam and steps taken up for rectifying those. He further informed that the State Level Water Management Committee would be constituted very soon along with the involvement of otherDepartmentlike PHED, Forest etc. He also expressed hope that the long pending works of Khuga Dam, Thoubal Multi Purpose Project, Dolaithabi Project etc. could be completed as all the hurdles had been rectified. He also said that Ethai Barrage would be opened and the height of Imphal Barrage Project be increased as suggested by Shri O. Joy Singh. He further expressed confidence that the SPF Government had that commitment and political will to complete all the unfinished projects. Regarding a query put up by Shri S. Chandra Singh, MLA he said that he could make a spot inquiry along with the Hon’ble Member.  

            Dr. Nara Singh, Minister (Arts & Culture) replying to the Demand discussion highlighted the importance of the Department terming Art as the nectar of life and Culture as the way of life of the society and further added that modernity and culture should go side by side. He said that a cultural policy was required for a social change and National Integration and further informed the House that the draft of the Cultural Policy was ready. He also informed the House that a Kangla Development Plan was ready with the help of renowned architect Nalini Thakur. He expressed hope that Kangla could be declared a World Heritage Site due to its important cultural perspectives and international significance. He also sought the support of all the Members in the implementation of Manipur Ancient and Monument Rule as a Special legislation was needed for that. Highlighting the importance of library and library movement in bringing quality education, he informed that Public Library Act was implemented in the State. He also expressed that one library would be built at every district with a model library and a children library in the State. In order to save the existing old records, the Public Record Act was implemented and added that the State Museum had been improved. He further recounted the appreciation of talented artist of Sumang Lila by people of the State and other States. He also clarified that the Wangoi Laipham Lainingthou Sanamahi need to be preserved. Stressing the need to open a cultural University in the state, he said that framing of a cultural policy was a step towards that end and added that a Multi Cultural Complex would be built at Imphal. He informed the House that a Monitoring Cell had been formed for taking up development works of INA complex. A committee was formed for framing the film festival rule and the Fifth State Film Festival would be held between October and February, he said.  

            S/Shri M. Nilchandra, I. Hemochandra Singh, S. Ibohal Singh, MLAs sought further clarifications. 

            Making clarifications Dr. Nara Singh, Minister (Arts and Culture) informed the House that a one week seminar would be held in October for discussing the works to be taken up for the development of Kangla and all the people would be welcomed to give their comments and suggestions in the seminar. 

            Chief Minister Shri O. Ibobi Singh moved for the passing of Demand No. 35- Stationery and Printing, Demand No. 40- Irrigation and Flood Control Department, Demand No. 41- Arts and Culture and Demand No. 42- State Academy of Training for passing. 

            All the cut motions were withdrawn and Demands were passed by the House unanimously. 

INTRODUCTION  OF  BILL: 

            1.         Shri O. Ibobi Singh, Chief Minister moved for leave to introduce the Manipur 
                        Appropriation (No 3) Bill, 2003.                         

                        The House granted leave and the Bill was introduced. 

            2.         Dr. Chaltolien Amo, Minister (Health) moved for the withdrawal of the Manipur Nursing Homes 
                        and Clinic Registration (Amendment) Bill, 2003. 

                       The House granted leave and the Bill was withdrawn. 

            The Hon`ble Speaker adjourned the House at 6.40 pm. till 11.00 am. of Friday, the 8th Aug.