‘Breakdown of law and order’: Manipur Congress leader slams airlift of Governor amid protests

Former Manipur Chief Minister and Congress leader Okram Ibobi Singh has slammed both state and central authorities over the ongoing unrest in Manipur, calling the situation a “complete failure of governance.” His sharp remarks came after Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla had to be airlifted in an Army helicopter due to widespread protests blocking his road route from the Imphal airport to Raj Bhawan.

The protest, led by civil society coalition COCOMI, prevented the Governor from covering even a seven-kilometre stretch by road. The incident, according to Ibobi, symbolises the collapse of law and order and the erosion of democratic institutions in the state. He demanded a public apology from the Governor, the Chief Secretary, the Security Advisor, and the Director General of Police.

Tensions have been running high in Manipur following a May 20 incident in which central forces reportedly forced the removal of the word “Manipur” from state transport buses. The move has sparked outrage, with many seeing it as a direct attack on the state’s identity and dignity. Ibobi questioned who gave such orders and demanded accountability from those in charge, including higher military authorities.

He further dismissed any talk of alliance or negotiations with the BJP, saying it’s the responsibility of constitutionally elected BJP MLAs to prove majority and form the government if they can. Calling the civil unrest spontaneous and not politically driven, he asserted that the Congress will never compromise on Manipur’s territorial integrity and identity.

The state continues to reel under a protracted crisis since ethnic violence erupted in May 2023. With increasing public anger, strained civil-military relations, and political impasse, the situation remains volatile and unresolved.