Imphal

Manipur Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh on Thursday said he was making efforts to strengthen the police force, while asserting that effective law and order was difficult to maintain in areas where police lacked authority and capacity.

Speaking on the law and order situation in the state assembly, Singh said the attendance of two Kuki legislators in the ongoing session was a positive development and the result of peace initiatives by various stakeholders.

"The attendance of two Kuki legislators in the assembly session is a good beginning and is the initiative of the House. They can come due to the peace initiatives taken by all," he said.

The chief minister said the ability of the police to maintain law and order was crucial for the functioning of the administration.

"It is truly pointed out that a land where morality, strength and administration of police is absent is one where maintenance of law and order is difficult," Singh said.

He said the ongoing crisis had affected the movement of security personnel across areas dominated by different communities.

"The effect of the crisis is such that Meitei and Naga police cannot enter Kangpokpi areas. Unfortunately, areas inhabited by communities have become sectarian. This was the scenario when I first became the CM," he said.

Singh recalled that there had been a time when protests were held against the deployment of police commandos in certain areas.

"At one time, strikes were held against the entry of Manipur Police commandos, citing their capabilities. Though it will take time to recover, I am trying and will continue to make every effort at the highest level to strengthen the police," he said.

On the state's finances, Singh said the prolonged crisis had affected revenue generation despite efforts by the government.

"As the state is in a period of crisis, the revenue sector, despite our efforts, has not increased much," he said.

He said the state had collected Rs 20 crore in liquor revenue since March this year and was working to increase it further.

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"We are working on improving revenues. As to the increase in borrowing, it is within the permissible amount under the Ministry of Finance," Singh said.