The opposition's criticism primarily centered on the alleged lack of specific allocations for Manipur in the recent budget...
Digital Desk: Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has vehemently refuted opposition claims of neglect towards Manipur in the Union Budget, asserting that significant financial aid has been allocated and disbursed for disaster relief in the state.
Addressing concerns over perceived budgetary neglect, Singh highlighted, "It's their petty politics. Manipur has already received not less than Rs 250 crore for hailstorms and floods, and we have already distributed it to the people."
The opposition's criticism primarily centered on the alleged lack of specific allocations for Manipur in the recent budget. Singh countered these assertions by emphasizing the substantial funds already deployed to mitigate the impact of natural calamities in the state.
The controversy intensified following statements from Lok Sabha MP Dr. Angomcha Bimol Akoijam on July 23, condemning the Union Budget 2024 for neglecting Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Manipur. Dr. Akoijam criticized the absence of provisions for flood relief or a rehabilitation package, lamenting, "Absence thy name is Manipur—that’s what this budget says!"
While funds were allocated for flood and irrigation issues in several other states, including Bihar and Assam, Manipur's specific challenges were not directly addressed. This disparity has sparked criticism from various quarters, with Assam MP Gaurav Gogoi also questioning the central government's understanding of northeastern complexities and aspirations.
As debates continue, the issue underscores ongoing tensions between regional needs and national budgetary priorities, highlighting the imperative for equitable resource allocation and sensitivity to local challenges across India's diverse regions.
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