A fresh controversy has surfaced in the Tengnoupal district of Manipur over the state administration's plans to construct a headquarters for the 11th Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) in Saivom village. The Kuki Chiefs' Association (KCA) has voiced firm opposition to the project, calling on authorities to put all construction activities and related procurement tenders on hold until peace and normalcy return across the state.
Local Leadership Alleges Lack of Consultation
The KCA expressed strong dissatisfaction over the manner in which the bidding process was initiated, alleging that the government floated the construction tender without prior notification or dialogue with local residents and tribal civil society groups. According to the leaders, proceeding with major infrastructure projects without taking regional stakeholders into confidence disregards the sentiments of the local population during a delicate period for the state.
Financial Parameters and Scope of Phase I Works
The bidding process for Phase I of the 11th IRB headquarters was formally launched by the Manipur Police Housing Corporation Limited. The initial development plan for the Saivom site outlines the construction of a mount barrack, a general barrack, and a dedicated police store. Official tender notices show that the contract holds an estimated value of Rs 39,43,838, with an earnest money deposit requirement set at Rs 78,900. The notice was published on August 12, 2026, and sets August 20, 2026, as the final submission deadline for interested contractors.
Civil Society Threatens Halt to Ground Execution
Reiterating its stance against the deployment of the new headquarters under current conditions, the chiefs' body warned that local civil society organisations (CSOs) in Tengnoupal district will actively block any work on the ground, even if a contract is awarded to a bidder. The leadership further cautioned both government authorities and prospective contractors against attempting to execute the project through alternative methods or enforcement, asserting that any fallout arising from such attempts will be the direct responsibility of the state and the involved parties. The association maintained that infrastructure expansion must remain suspended until total stability is re-established in the region.
