National Desk, 3rd May: As the first anniversary of the eruption of ethnic violence in Manipur unfolds, the Congress party has launched a blistering critique of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s silence on the crisis-riddled state. Congress Rajya Sabha MP Jairam Ramesh took to social media to lambast the BJP-led government, accusing it of exacerbating divisions through cynical and divisive politics, resulting in a state of near civil war in Manipur. Despite acknowledging hundreds of casualties, thousands displaced, and a breakdown of constitutional machinery, the Prime Minister has yet to visit Manipur, engage with stakeholders, or issue substantive statements addressing the crisis.
Ramesh highlighted the BJP’s “Bluff and Rule” policy in the Northeast, asserting that it prioritizes short-term political gains over addressing community concerns, which has torn apart the social fabric of Manipur and risks a similar situation in Nagaland. Expressing disappointment over the Prime Minister’s minimal attention to Manipur, Ramesh praised Rahul Gandhi’s efforts, including two visits to the state, emphasizing that the suffering of Manipur is a shared burden for all of India.
The violence erupted on May 3, 2023, following protests by the All Tribal Students Union of Manipur, resulting in clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities and the deployment of paramilitary forces.
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