Manipur Launches Probe Into Handlooms Directorate Corruption

Imphal: The Manipur government ordered a probe into the Directorate of Handlooms and Textiles. Officials suspect financial and technical rot under Director Elangbam Jeeten. Special Secretary A Subhash Singh leads a three-member inquiry committee to expose the mess.

Asem Rangina Chanu and Orjubala Haorongbam join Singh on the panel. The government issued the order on July 15. The team has two weeks to submit a report on how the directorate handled state and central schemes. The probe follows a July 13 joint representation from weavers, artisans, and cooperative societies.

Complainants claim the department distributed over 6,000 substandard looms. A frame loom costs Rs 30,000, with the center covering Rs 27,000 of the bill. Beneficiaries reportedly received cheap units worth only Rs 16,000. These deliveries often lacked essential weaving accessories. Artisans demanded audits of all major procurements.

The group also questioned the leadership of Elangbam Jeeten. The director holds an M.Sc. in Geology and Mining, not a background in textiles. Critics argue the appointment ignores recruitment rules and High Court guidelines. They stated, "A technical department should ideally be headed by officers with specialised expertise in textile development."