Imphal: Chief Minister N. Biren Singh made it clear Friday that his government accepted criticism but could not tolerate unfounded accusations.
“We live in a democracy and enjoy the freedom of expression and the freedom of the press. We accept criticism but not accusations,” the chief minister said during a programme commemorating the 20th anniversary of the establishment of a local television channel.
“We need to understand the differences between the two,” he continued.
The Chief Minister further expressed the need for living together but said no community should dominate another.
“Only when we understand the different communities residing together in the state will we be able to bring about good governance,” N. Biren said, further urging support and cooperation from all so that we will live together in unity.
The Chief Minister also spoke on the war on drugs campaign and said the campaign has become a people’s war and will soon be a success.
He said both print and electronic media have important roles to play in building a society, but the visual medium is more effective in creating awareness among the people. Today, with mass awareness among the public, people are coming out voluntarily in support of the war on drugs and destroying poppy plantations.
Speaking about the influx of illegal immigrants and drugs along the international border, the Chief Minister said that once construction of the 34 police outposts along the border is complete, it will prevent and protect against the influx of illegal immigrants along the border.
Ministers Awangbou Newmai, Dr Sapam Ranjan Singh, Thounaojam Basantakumar Singh, and MLAs Thongam Shanti Singh and Sanasam Premchandra Singh also attended the event.
