Former Congress president Sonia Gandhi has expressed dismay over the ongoing violence in Manipur, accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of failing to address the crisis and neglecting the violence-hit State.
Gandhi stated that it has been 50 days since Manipur started burning and criticised Modi for deliberately ignoring the situation. Gandhi extended her condolences to those who lost their loved ones and expressed deep sadness at the forced displacement of people from their homes. She described the situation as heart-breaking, witnessing peaceful coexistence turning into conflict among the people.
Gandhi emphasised the importance of choosing a path of healing to shape the future that the children of Manipur will inherit, urging the people, especially the women, to lead the way in bringing peace and harmony to the State. Meanwhile, leaders from 10 Opposition parties in Manipur have been camping in Delhi since June 10, seeking a meeting with Modi to discuss the ethnic clashes. However, they have failed to secure an audience with Modi and have submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) instead.
Congress chief spokesman Jairam Ramesh, criticised the BJP-led Government for its “maximum silence, minimum governance” approach in Manipur. He lamented the lack of response from Modi, despite his vocal opinions on various issues.
Ramesh said Modi has not made any statement on the tragedy or granted an appointment to the representatives of political parties seeking to discuss the situation and this silence indicates a lack of concern or care.
Manipur Congress spokesperson Ningombam Meitei questioned the duration of the ongoing turmoil and demanded answers from Modi. Meitei emphasised that the people of Manipur have a constitutional right to be heard by PM.