Manipur political crisis continues

IMPHAL, February 14: Though there is an uncertainty in the formation of a new ministry in Manipur, the leader of the Samata Party and leader of the newly-formed 'People's Front' Radhabinod Koijam has staked claim to form an alternative government twice within 24 hours. Addressing a crowded press conference here at the Speaker's bungalow tonight, Radhabinod Koijam said 'people's Front' was formed with the support of 45 members from six different political parties which include MSCP-23, SP -12, BJP-6, NCP-2, MPP-1 and JD(S)-1. He also submitted a formal letter to Governor Ved Marwah enclosing signatures of 45 opposition MLAs prior to the press conference, to form a new Government, saying he had a comfortable majority in the 60-members House with an effective strength of 59 members. The main agenda for the formation of People' Front is to improve law-and-order, to set forth a corruption free administration and also to protect the territorial integrity of Manipur, Radhabinod said. It may be recalled here that another body called 'United Democratic Alliance' was formed with the support of 39 members comprising MSCP-22, FPM-4, SP-12 and one Independent and Radhabinod Koijam was elected its leader. This was clearly announced during a press conference held at the Chief Minister's bungalow yesterday evening. However, the entire scenario changed this afternoon just after the Assembly session was over. Only about 17 Opposition members including the Speaker Sapam Dhananjoy participated in the Assembly which continued for an hour to organise obituary reference.