| 18 June 2023
In a scathing tweet, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government for their alleged indifference towards the escalating crisis in Manipur. Kharge labeled the situation in the northeastern border state as "precarious and deeply disturbing," accusing the central government of turning a blind eye to the troubles plaguing the region. Furthermore, he demanded that the Centre permit an all-party delegation to visit Manipur and assess the ground reality.
Kharge's tweet took a direct aim at PM Modi's popular radio show, "Mann Ki Baat," suggesting that the program should have given voice to the concerns and challenges faced by the people of Manipur. The Congress leader questioned the Prime Minister's silence, the absence of a meeting to address the crisis, and the failure to engage with an all-party delegation. Kharge's strongly worded statement insinuated that the Modi-led government did not consider Manipur as an integral part of India, describing such an attitude as unacceptable.
Manipur has been embroiled in a fresh wave of mob build-ups and clashes in recent days, exacerbating the already tense situation in the state. Ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities has been ravaging the region for over 40 days. Following a violent rally on May 3, the state government imposed curfews in multiple districts and suspended internet services. To contain the escalating violence, a significant deployment of security forces was necessary. However, the fragile peace was shattered when a mob set fire to the house of a Union minister. Additionally, reports of firing incidents, clashes between mobs and security forces, and attempts to burn down residences of BJP leaders have emerged.
In response to the deteriorating situation, Kharge criticized the Prime Minister's apparent lack of action, accusing the government of being "asleep at the wheel" while Manipur suffers. He called upon PM Modi to adhere to "Raj Dharma," the moral duty of governance, and take immediate measures to restore peace in the troubled state. The Congress president pointed out that the ongoing ethnic violence has already claimed the lives of over 100 individuals and continues to pose a significant threat to the region's stability.
Currently, Manipur is under the watchful eye of approximately 30,000 central security personnel, who have been deployed to assist the state police in maintaining law and order. Despite these efforts, the situation remains fragile, and the need for swift action from the central government is crucial to prevent further loss of life and property.
As Mallikarjun Kharge's tweet amplifies the growing concerns surrounding the crisis in Manipur, it raises significant questions about the government's response and its commitment to the well-being of the people of Manipur. The demand for an all-party delegation to visit the state reflects the urgent need for a comprehensive assessment of the ground reality and a coordinated effort to find a lasting solution to the ethnic violence. It is now incumbent upon the Prime Minister and his government to address these concerns and take concrete steps to bring peace and stability to Manipur.
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