Opposition Delegation in Manipur Urges Restoration of Peace and Accountability from Prime Minister

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A 21-member multi-party delegation of MPs belonging to the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) from the Opposition visited Manipur for a two-day assessment of the state’s situation. Today, they met with Manipur Governor Anusuiya Uikey to share their experiences and concerns.

During the meeting, the delegation submitted a memorandum to Governor Uikey, urging her to take effective measures to restore peace and harmony in the strife-torn region, with justice as a cornerstone. They emphasized the urgency of rehabilitating and resettling affected individuals to achieve lasting peace. Furthermore, the delegation called on the Union Government to intervene in the situation, given the complete breakdown of law and order in Manipur over the past 89 days.

Having visited relief camps in Churachandpur, Moirang, and Imphal, the delegation interacted with the victims and inmates, witnessing the dire conditions prevailing there. They expressed deep concern over the lack of response from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that his silence demonstrated indifference to the ongoing violence in Manipur. The delegation cited alarming figures related to the ethnic conflict, including over 140 deaths, more than 500 injuries, the burning of 5,000 houses, and the internal displacement of over 60,000 people.

According to the memorandum, the state and central governments have failed to protect the lives and properties of the two communities involved in the conflict. Recent reports of incessant firing and arson further support the claim that the authorities have been unable to control the situation for nearly three months.

The condition of the relief camps was described as “pathetic,” with the delegation stressing the need for prioritizing special care for children. They also highlighted the adverse impact of the internet ban in the region for the past three months, which has contributed to the spread of unsubstantiated rumors and deepened mistrust.

Rajya Sabha MP Sushmita Dev of the Trinamool Congress, speaking at a press conference, assured the people of Manipur that the opposition alliance stands firmly with them. She pledged to fight until the end of the Parliament’s monsoon session to hold the Prime Minister accountable for the situation in Manipur. She expressed concern that northeastern states often feel overlooked in Parliament and dismissed accusations from the BJP that the opposition is merely engaging in photo-ops and disrupting the parliamentary process without a genuine desire for debate.

Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury mentioned that the Governor herself expressed sorrow during the meeting. The Governor advised all leaders from different communities, including Kuki and Meitei, to engage in dialogue and find a collective solution. She further suggested that an all-party delegation should visit Manipur to address the prevailing atmosphere of mistrust and work together towards a resolution.