In a state still engulfed in unrest, the Manipur opposition Congress has once again demanded the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. The party highlighted that despite 75 days passing since the outbreak of ethnic violence, the state government has failed to restore normalcy and peace.
P. Saratchandra, the General Secretary of the Manipur Congress, expressed disappointment in the lack of specific and realistic initiatives undertaken by the Central and state governments to address the ongoing ethnic crisis. He criticized Chief Minister Biren Singh for seemingly prioritizing his own political survival over the welfare of the state and its people. Saratchandra emphasized that the party has lost trust in the ruling BJP government and firmly believes that it is incapable of protecting the interests of Manipur’s citizens.
The opposition leader further lamented the loss of innocent lives, the displacement of thousands of people, and the unprecedented situation faced by the people of Manipur. He questioned the government’s inaction in dealing with the militants who were reportedly violating the terms of their ceasefire agreement. Saratchandra demanded that the state government set a clear timeline for resolving the crisis and restoring peace to Manipur or step aside and hand over the reins to capable individuals.
In a show of solidarity, Manipur state Congress President Keisham Meghachandra, along with other senior party leaders, distributed toys, chocolates, stationery, and heartfelt gifts to children residing in a relief camp in Manipur. This gesture aimed to provide solace and support to those affected by the ongoing turmoil.
Simultaneously, thousands of women from various organizations took to the streets of Imphal, demanding the restoration of peace and normalcy in the state. Their peaceful march toward the Chief Minister’s residence aimed to submit a memorandum, but it was halted by security forces at a designated checkpoint.
The prolonged silence from Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the Manipur crisis has drawn criticism. Many have expressed disappointment at his failure to address the situation, despite his previous interventions in international conflicts. His silence on Manipur has left the state’s residents feeling abandoned and betrayed, with some even resorting to symbolic acts of frustration, such as breaking their radio sets.
The anguish extends beyond Manipur’s borders, as the Chief Minister of Mizoram, Zoramthanga, a BJP ally, took to Twitter to plead for immediate assistance from the central government. He expressed his deep concern over the escalating violence, which has resulted in numerous deaths, the destruction of churches, and brutal killings. However, reports suggest that Mizoram’s plea for financial aid has yet to receive a response.
Even as Manipur’s turmoil continues to escalate, with reports of further attacks, killings, and the displacement of tens of thousands of people, the Prime Minister’s silence remains unbroken. Notably, the lack of a response from the highest office in the country has left many feeling abandoned and further fuels the demand for accountability.
As the state grapples with the enduring unrest, the Manipur Congress persists in its call for Chief Minister Biren Singh’s resignation, aiming to pave the way for a resolution and a return to peace and stability in Manipur.
The Chenab Times News Desk