The Shirui Heritage Centre project has so far faced three RTI applications and two court cases.
Ukhrul, July 4| EKHON: Speaking at a press conference at the Ukhrul Press Club on Friday, project contractors and village leaders made an emotional appeal to set aside differences and safeguard the future of the long-awaited Shirui Heritage Project. They described the initiative as a landmark for Ukhrul and called on all stakeholders to ensure its smooth and timely execution.
Speaking at the press meet, Shirui Heritage Project contractor Sunny Shimrah stated that BIPL was awarded the project through a tender process declared on February 23, in accordance with legal procedures. He noted that work had commenced and was progressing well until it was stalled by what he termed “unnecessary interference” by vested interests.
Calling for urgent intervention, Shimrah urged the authorities to act to prevent further delays, noting that the project operates under a fixed timeline. He warned that extended disruptions would ultimately impact public interest. Shimrah further stated that those with legitimate concerns regarding the tender process should pursue legal remedies and present evidence before the appropriate authorities.
According to Shimrah, all RTI applications filed in the matter had been addressed and the court had issued stay orders twice. He alleged that despite these developments, certain individuals were still interfering with the execution of the project. In support of his statements, he produced copies of court orders, RTI responses, official D.O. letters, and documents pertaining to the withdrawal of a petition by M/S Nongmaithem Enterprises.
While Lunghar village Headman Mataisang stated that as the village stands to gain directly from the Shirui Heritage Project, he urged all stakeholders to refrain from obstructing the executing agency and to ensure smooth implementation. Mataisang further emphasized that the project must be completed within the given timeframe while adhering to approved quality norms.
Mataisang stated that grievances related to the tender process should be addressed through legal forums or by competent authorities, including the local MLA and the Chief Minister, instead of impeding developmental activities for public welfare. He further appealed to the Ukhrul MLA to intervene regarding the reported misuse of his name and official D.O. letter, which he alleged were being used by some individuals to stall the project.
Mataisang dismissed social media allegations that he was functioning as a subcontractor for BIPL, describing the claims as unfounded.
Speaking in his capacity as Headman of Lunghar village, he reiterated that his priority was the timely and quality completion of the Shirui Heritage Project to ensure that future generations benefit from the landmark initiative.
