IMPHAL: Civil society organisations in Manipur’s Tengnoupal district have opposed the proposed tendering and construction of the 11th Indian Reserve Battalion (11 IRB) at Saivom village, alleging that the process is being undertaken without meaningful consultation with local elected representatives and civil society groups.
In a press release issued on August 25, the organisations said establishing a major security installation would have significant implications for the local community, land, environment, administration and development.
They said such a decision should not be taken without consultation with elected representatives, civil society organisations and other stakeholders representing affected communities.
The groups also opposed the establishment of new state force posts at Saivom or Lokchan/Tuipi villages until peace and normalcy are restored in the district.
They demanded that the tendering and construction process be put on hold until normalcy returns, and called for the views of local residents to be formally recorded and considered.
The organisations also sought clarity and accountability over major government projects affecting local communities and demanded meaningful stakeholder consultation before the project proceeds.
They warned that failure to address public concerns could lead to strong opposition and urged the Chief Minister, concerned ministers, Chief Secretary, Director General of Police and other authorities to intervene.
The groups said they would continue to pursue the matter through democratic and lawful means.
