Govt completely failed to control Manipur ethnic conflict: Oppn bloc INDIA

The ethnic conflict in Manipur has been persisting for nearly three months, and the government's failure to control the situation has drawn strong criticism from the opposition bloc INDIA.

On Sunday, a memorandum signed by 21 opposition MPs was submitted to Manipur Governor Anusuiya Uikey, demanding immediate rehabilitation and resettlement of the affected people to restore peace and harmony in the northeastern state.

The opposition MPs expressed grave concern over the reports of continuous firing and arson of houses, indicating the complete failure of the state machinery to control the situation. Additionally, they highlighted the negative impact of the three-month-long internet ban, stating that it is fueling unsubstantiated rumors and further deepening the mistrust among communities.

The memorandum criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's silence on the ongoing violence in Manipur, accusing him of displaying brazen indifference to the situation. The opposition MPs emphasized that the prevailing anger and sense of alienation among all communities must be urgently addressed.

The opposition delegation arrived in Manipur to assess the ground situation and interacted with victims of the ethnic clashes in various relief camps. They were deeply moved by the stories of anxieties, uncertainties, pains, and sorrows shared by the affected individuals.

The conditions in the relief camps were described as pathetic, particularly for children, demanding special attention from both the state and Union governments. Students from different streams are facing an uncertain future, and the opposition stressed that it should be a top priority to address their needs.

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh criticized PM Modi's lack of empathy towards the people of Manipur, stating that their suffering seems to make "absolutely no difference" to him. Ramesh contrasted this with the opposition delegation's efforts to discuss the concerns of Manipur with the Governor.

The conflict, which began on May 3 after a 'Tribal Solidarity March,' has resulted in more than 160 fatalities and hundreds of injuries. The clashes were triggered by protests against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Meiteis constitute the majority of Manipur's population and reside mainly in the Imphal Valley, while the tribal communities of Nagas and Kukis form the minority and inhabit the hill districts.