The Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) has sharply criticised the state administration under President’s Rule, alleging serious negligence in implementing key rural infrastructure works despite the release of substantial central funds.

Addressing the media at Congress Bhawan in Imphal, MPCC President K. Meghachandra accused the government of failing to execute Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) Phase-III projects that were meant to improve rural connectivity across Manipur.

He said the Central Government had approved Rs 4.04 billion and Rs 2.05 billion in 2019 for constructing and upgrading 125,000 kilometres of rural roads under PMGSY Phase-III. However, he claimed the project remains “totally unimplemented”, leaving rural roads across the state in a “pathetic condition”.

Although the tendering process began in 2024, it has yet to be completed. Meghachandra alleged that tenders were floated and cancelled “two or three times”, suggesting possible manipulation. He further claimed that the guidelines were deliberately framed to discourage local contractors, enabling officials and ministers to favour chosen firms.

Condemning the functioning of the administration and the concerned department, he said public anger is rising, reflected in protests across the state over worsening road conditions. He urged the government to respond to people’s grievances rather than “looting public money”, and to immediately restart rural road works.

Meghachandra cautioned that, according to information from the relevant Ministry, PMGSY Phase-III projects must be tendered and executed before 31 March 2026, failing which the sanctioned funds may lapse. He pressed the administration to act swiftly to ensure Manipur does not lose critical financial support for strengthening its rural infrastructure.