Imphal: The Congress has criticized the BJP-led Central government for delaying the imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur, stating that the demand had been raised for the past 20 months while the state’s social fabric suffered immense damage.
The imposition of President’s Rule on February 13 comes after Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s resignation, which led to political uncertainty in the violence-hit northeastern state.
Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh took to social media to highlight the prolonged crisis in Manipur, citing the Supreme Court’s observation of an ‘absolute breakdown of constitutional machinery’ in the state. He recalled that since May 3, 2023, over 300 people had lost their lives, and more than 60,000 individuals had been displaced due to ethnic violence.
Ramesh further accused the BJP government of mishandling the situation, pointing out that despite securing a huge majority in the 2022 elections, the party’s governance led to a colossal tragedy within just 15 months. He also blamed Union Home Minister Amit Shah for failing to restore peace, while taking a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not visiting Manipur despite the ongoing crisis.
The Manipur Assembly, which was elected until 2027, has now been placed under suspended animation following a notification by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The move came after Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla’s report to President Droupadi Murmu, leading to the decision to impose central rule.
Former Chief Minister N Biren Singh, who had been at the helm of the BJP government during the ethnic turmoil, stepped down on February 9 after meeting Amit Shah in Delhi. The situation in Manipur remains tense, with opposition parties demanding accountability from the BJP government over its handling of the crisis.