Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday requested President Droupadi Murmu’s intervention to restore peace and normalcy in Manipur. He criticized both the Union and state governments for failing to bring stability to the region over the past 18 months.
In his letter to the President, Kharge expressed concerns over the rising insecurity among Manipur’s residents. He stated that the people, particularly infants, children, and women, have been killed without any relief from the governments. He highlighted that the people of Manipur have felt isolated for more than 540 days.
Congress Delegation Discusses Manipur Crisis
A Congress delegation, including Manipur state President Keisham Meghachandra Singh, MP Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, AICC Member Ningombam Bupenda Meitei, General Secretary Jairam Ramesh, and AICC in-charge Girish Chodankar, met with Kharge to discuss the situation.
Kharge noted that, despite the ethnic violence that broke out in May 2023, Prime Minister Modi had not visited Manipur, while both he and Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi had visited several times.
Manipur Faces Economic and Social Crisis
Kharge further explained that businesses have shut down, jobs have been lost, and professionals have fled the state. Basic commodities, including food and medicines, are in short supply, and schools remain closed.
He also pointed out the severe toll on the mental health of the population. The violence has claimed over 300 lives, displaced nearly a lakh people, and forced them to live in relief camps.