IMPHAL, Nov 9: Manipur Congress President and MLA Keisham Meghachandra on Saturday met with the Finance Commission team to present a memorandum stressing the urgent issues facing the state due to ongoing violence, particularly the struggles of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and the need to strengthen local governance. Meghachandra highlighted the state’s crisis, requesting financial aid for approximately 60,000 IDPs who need support to rebuild their lives and homes.
“Our main focus is the situation of the IDPs,” Meghachandra said, explaining the Congress’ call for compensation and aid to help these families recover from the conflict.
He also emphasized the importance of a dedicated financial package for gram panchayats and urban local bodies, which have been unable to function due to the conflict. Meghachandra noted that the local economy has stagnated, and autonomous district councils are facing challenges in carrying out essential duties. He argued that, despite receiving central funds, local governance bodies cannot recover from the conflict’s damage without additional support.
“Without a special financial package, local bodies cannot address the extensive losses they’ve suffered,” he added.
Meghachandra also pointed out that Manipur’s budget for 2024-25 has seen a rare decrease, indicating the economy’s strain due to ongoing violence. He urged the Finance Commission to recommend special funding packages to boost income generation and restore key sectors. He further highlighted Manipur’s status as one of the states with the highest inflation rates in India.
The memorandum included additional requests for funding in areas like universities, hospitals, and sports infrastructure to support Manipur’s recovery and growth.
The 16th Finance Commission, which has been visiting states to gather input, is assessing each state’s unique financial needs. Manipur is the 11th state in the Commission’s tour, with the team planning visits to 17 more states to develop comprehensive recommendations.
