Saitu MLA Haokholet Kipgen visited a Pre-Fabricated relief camp at Phaijang village in his Saitu Assembly Constituency on Saturday to personally assess the current situation of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).
During the visit, Kipgen took stock of the challenges and grievances faced by those displaced by recent unrest, ensuring their voices were heard.
MLA Kipgen also expressed his gratitude to the district administration for arranging a large structure that accommodates hundreds of IDP families. He praised the administration's dedication to addressing the needs of those affected by the conflict.
Interacting closely with the camp residents, Kipgen spent time listening to their stories of hardship, noting their concerns and immediate needs. He expressed deep sympathy for their plight and lauded their resilience in these trying times.
In a reassuring move, the MLA informed the IDPs of ongoing efforts to establish semi-permanent residences, a project he has been working on for the past few months. Kipgen promised that many displaced families would be able to move into more stable living conditions by the end of this year.
"The Government of India is committed to providing semi-pucca or semi-permanent residences for IDPs who wish to construct their own homes," he said, highlighting one of the key issues he has been pursuing for several months.
Kipgen further explained that the Government of India has allocated ₹10 lakh for the construction of each semi-permanent house, contingent on the submission of required documents and the fulfillment of formalities by the IDPs.
In sharing updates about his constituency, the MLA stated, "In my constituency alone, around 21 houses are expected to be sanctioned shortly, with the Government of India providing ₹10 lakhs for each."
When asked about the timeline for the displaced families to return to their homes, the MLA emphasized that returning is not yet feasible. "We cannot simply go back; we need to ensure that our concerns are fully addressed first. Until then, it will be difficult for people to return," he remarked.
Kipgen reassured the IDPs that, while permanent settlements may take time, semi-permanent housing would be provided as an interim solution.
During his visit, Kipgen also offered a heartfelt message of hope, encouraging the displaced individuals to remain strong and united. "You are not alone in this struggle," he said, urging them to maintain faith in the ongoing efforts of the Government of India.
The MLA’s visit was met with appreciation from the camp residents, who expressed their gratitude for his unwavering support and dedication to their welfare.
One of the Internally Displaced Persons said that we are delighted that the local MLA personally visited us allowing us to highlight our grievances and hardships with the challenges we have faced all through these months.
She also conveyed her hope that their grievances and challenges will be addressed very soon.
