Dispute cancels foundation stone laying function
05-Apr-2026
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By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Apr 5 : An initiative by the Government to lay the foundation stone for an Inter State Truck Terminus (ISTT) in Jiribam was abruptly cancelled at the last minute today due to a land-related dispute.
While some groups argued that the ISTT site is located in Chandrapur, others contended that the land falls under Lakhipur.
A credible source stated that the land designated for the ISTT project falls under the jurisdiction of Lakhipur Club but is classified under the Chandrapur Ward at the ward level of the Jiribam Municipal Council.
It is reported that all preparations for the laying of the foundation stone were completed this morning, and the stone plaque was already placed at the site.
The stone plaque, which was to be unveiled by Chief Minister Y Khemchand, bears the inscription - "Government of Manipur, Foundation Stone Laying for the Project, Construction of Inter State Truck Terminus at Lakhipur, Jiribam District, Laid by Y. Khemchand, Honourable Chief Minister, Manipur."
However, due to a dispute over the naming of the project site location, the event was cancelled at the last minute.
Instead of laying the foundation stone, the Chief Minister and the accompanying MLAs planted tree saplings at the site. When asked about the cancellation of the foundation stone laying, the Chief Minister only responded that the event would not take place today.
He, meanwhile, stated that the Government will see if a tourism project can be launched at the ISTT site after consulting with the Town Planning Department officials, provided the land is available.
Khemchand also mentioned that the Government aims to develop Jiribam into a model district.
Emphasising that all communities in Manipur desire peace, he added that a collective effort is required to bridge the existing trust deficit.
The Chief Minister stated that his goal is to foster communal harmony and restore complete normalcy in the State.
Noting that Jiribam is the first district where different communities have come together, shared a meal, and demonstrated unity since the crisis began on May 3, 2023, he said that he would never forget his experience in Jiribam and the compassion shown by the people of the district.
Khemchand further stated that this is his second visit to Jiribam since becoming Chief Minister.