Imphal: As Manipur marks two years since the outbreak of ethnic violence, the Congress party on May 3 demanded fresh elections in the strife-torn state, citing the continued instability despite the imposition of President’s Rule in February.
Addressing the media at the AICC headquarters, Congress MP and Manipur in-charge Saptagiri Ulaka described the situation as “one of the gravest humanitarian crises in India,” with over 260 people killed, 1,500 injured, and more than 70,000 displaced since the conflict between Meiteis and Kukis began on May 3, 2023.
Ulaka sharply criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating, “Modi ji visited 44 countries and attended 250 domestic events, yet he never addressed Manipur or visited the state even once.” He accused the BJP government of neglecting the issue and claimed that President’s Rule was only imposed after the Congress announced a no-confidence motion, prompting the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh.
Calling the situation on the ground “far from normal,” Ulaka demanded that the Centre announce fresh elections to form a people’s government that could restore peace. He also questioned the delay in releasing the report by the Ajay Lamba-led Commission of Inquiry into the violence.
Manipur Congress president Keisham Meghachandra Singh echoed these sentiments, alleging that the BJP was the “architect of the violence” and that the “double-engine government” had failed to protect lives and restore order. “We don’t trust the Modi government anymore,” he said. “Only a Congress-led government can bring peace to Manipur.”
The Congress party urged the people of Manipur to reject violence, uphold democracy, and support a fresh mandate to ensure lasting peace and justice.
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