Padma awardee accuses Manipur government of favouritism over felicitation

A Manipur weaver conferred the Padma Shri this year on Sunday accused the BJP-led coalition government in the state of "favouritism" in publicly felicitating another Padma awardee and state weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu and not her.

Chief Minister N. Biren Singh and other Ministers and high officials attended a felicitation function in Imphal on January 27 at which Chanu was handed over Rs 20 lakh in cash.

Subadani, who was recognised for her contribution to weaving in the northeast region, told the media here that she was not concerned about the cash component of the felicitation.

"I was neither given the money nor a public reception by the state government. This is incomprehensible since we both got the same awards."

She said she could pass on her knowledge and technique of weaving to coming generations.

A senior state official told IANS that there was no question of ignoring Subadani.

"The two issues are separate. Mirabai Chanu had created a world record in weightlifting after a long gap and brought laurels for India. The cash prize was given for this... it is a small gesture to promote sportspersons in Manipur. In the past, a number of persons from the state were conferred Padma awards but they were never given public reception or cash awards."

Subadani said: "I am not concerned over the cash. All I want to say is that since both had got the same award from the Indian government, there should not have been any discrimination. It is a clear sign of government favouritism."

--IANS

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