Image: DIPR, Manipur

Manipur consumers affairs, food & public distribution minister Karam Shyam on Wednesday visited the grief-stricken victims of Ukhrul fire incident.

As many as 13 shops had been completely ravaged by fire that broke out at Ukhrul town on November 18 evening.

Minister Shyam who hails from Langthabal constituency in Imphal West district also handed over 20 bags of food grains and about Rs two lakhs of financial assistance.

Earlier MLA Khashim Vashum of Chingai Assembly Constituency also donated Rs one lakh monetary support while deputy commissioner Joseph Pauline of Ukhrul district provided 10 bags of food grains and Rs 10, 000 each to the fire victims.

Speaking at the gathering at Wino bazaar which is located in the heart of Ukhrul district headquarters, 84 km north east of Imphal, minister Shyam who also holds revenue portfolio said that the government understands the sorrows of the victims and is always ready to provide help to the public in times of need.

Appreciating the natives of Ukhrul in dealing with the present crisis, he said that the government is ready to render any possible help to solve the matter after proper police inquiry and consultation with the Home department.

MLA Khashim Vashum, Joseph Pauline, members of Tangkhul Naga Long, victims and their family and other Ukhrul natives were present at the gathering.

Reports from the hill town further added the Ukhrul MLA Alfred Kanngam Arthur also visited the victims of the Ukhrul fire incident in the morning.

In 2009, the infamous ‘Wino Inferno’ had destroyed many homes and properties.

The people had rebuilt their homes with their resilience and support from the community.