Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Wednesday said the issue concerning Southern Angami Public Organisation (SAPO) is not a ‘state vs state’ matter, and the Manipur government has written to Nagaland government, stating that SAPO’s demand is not legitimate. However, the Central government will be pressed to intervene in the issue if needed.
The Manipur government has written to the Central government to look into the matter, Biren told the media during the launch of Imphal-Mao Manipur State Bus (MST) Bus Service held at MST office complex, Moirangkhom, Imphal West on Wednesday.
The present issue caused by SAPO, a Nagaland based organisation, is based on their customary claims, he added.
Biren further said that 28 buses are ready for passenger service at MST at present. Of them, two buses are kept reserved for Imphal-Mao service. The importance of the launch of Imphal-Mao bus service lies in the fact that the relationship between the people of Imphal and Mao, including other districts located at the border area of Manipur, will become better with the help of this bus service, he said.
Many private passenger services are already plying as inter-district passenger service; however, passengers now have the option to avail low fare travel with the launching of MST bus service, he added.
The bus service will not only give passenger service but it will help the people of Mao in enhancing their business at Imphal city, he added.
Biren said following the public demand, the state will increase service for the welfare of people. The bus service for Imphal-Mao will start from 7 am every day.
MLA Losii Dikho; chief secretary Rajesh Kumar; additional chief secretary (transport) P Vaiphei; president of Naga People’s Organisation Solomon Arow; president of Mao Council, Manipur S Loli and others attended the launch.
