NEW DELHI: The Congress party intensified its criticism of the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi government on Monday, alleging that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is deliberately prolonging the conflict in Manipur.
Congress leaders and representatives from 10 like-minded Opposition parties from Manipur gathered at the All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary Jairam Ramesh’s residence to discuss the state’s situation while awaiting an appointment with the Prime Minister.
In a series of tweets, Congress General Secretary (Organisation) K. C. Venugopal expressed concern over the continuous neglect shown by the Prime Minister and the BJP towards Manipur. He stated, “Every passing day of neglect confirms the belief that PM Modi and the BJP are interested in prolonging the conflict, not finding a solution.”
Manipur is burning since 49 days. On Day 50, will PM @narendramodi fly away to foreign lands, without uttering a single word on the ongoing crisis?
Hundreds dead, thousands rendered homeless, countless churches and places of worship destroyed, and a state administration that is…
— K C Venugopal (@kcvenugopalmp) June 19, 2023
Venugopal drew attention to the worsening situation in Manipur, which has witnessed violence for 49 days, resulting in numerous casualties, displacement, and damage to places of worship. He criticized the state administration for being a part of the problem instead of providing a solution. He also highlighted the recent spillover of violence into Mizoram.
Modi’s Silence Over Manipur Violence
Questioning the Prime Minister’s silence and referring to his monthly radio program “Mann Ki Baat,” Venugopal asked when the “self-styled vishwaguru” would address the concerns of Manipur. He called for Prime Minister Modi to make a public appeal for peace and hold the Union Home Minister and Manipur Chief Minister accountable for their failure in restoring peace.
On Saturday, 10 opposition parties from Manipur sought an appointment with the Prime Minister to discuss the situation and appeal for peace, expressing their disappointment at his silence.
The conflict in Manipur began on May 3 after a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ organized by the hill districts in protest against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The clashes have resulted in over 100 deaths. Manipur’s population comprises approximately 53% Meiteis residing in the Imphal Valley and 40% tribal communities, including Nagas and Kukis, residing in the hill districts.
