New Delhi: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday sharply criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) following a violent clash in Manipur, which left a senior police officer injured. This incident occurred amid ongoing ethnic violence that has plagued the state for months, particularly between the Meitei and Kukis communities.
In a tweet, Kharge directed his criticism at Modi, accusing him of neglecting the state after his last visit in January 2022, which was primarily aimed at garnering votes for the BJP. “Your last visit to Manipur was for seeking votes for BJP, way back in January 2022. Violence erupted in the state on 3rd May 2023,” Kharge wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
The Congress has repeatedly expressed frustration over Modi’s failure to visit Manipur, where ethnic violence has ravaged the state since May last year. In addition, Kharge referenced satellite images that he claimed show extensive destruction in the state. “Satellite images have now revealed that villages after villages have been wiped off in the state,” Kharge alleged, citing media reports.
The Congress leader also hit out at Manipur’s Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, labeling him as “incompetent and shameless” for his handling of the crisis. This comes after fresh violence erupted in Kangpokpi district, where a mob attacked the Superintendent of Police, resulting in injuries. “Your incompetent and shameless Chief Minister has expressed regret but has conveniently brazened out your absence in the state,” Kharge remarked.
Kharge further accused the BJP of fanning the flames of violence in Manipur, stating, “The BJP, due to its vested interests, is keeping the northeastern state on the boil.” He boldly declared, “The BJP is the matchstick which burnt Manipur.”
