Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Saturday came down heavily on organisations that boycotted Republic Day celebrations in the state to protest against the citizenship bill, saying they should instead contest elections to get people's mandate.
Bandhs and blockades hit daily wage earners the most, Mr Biren said, adding, he has appealed to the organisations multiple times not to resort to such kind of protests.
"We are duly elected legislators who have formed a government based on the mandate of the people... Leaders of those (protesting) bodies should contest elections and get people's mandate in order to participate in the decision-making meetings," Mr Biren said at the Manipur Rifles Parade Ground.
At least five organisations, including the United Committee Manipur (UCM), All Manipur United Clubs Organisation (AMUCO) and Committee of Civil Societies Kangleipak (CCSK) jointly boycotted the 70th Republic Day celebrations to protest against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2016.