Northeast Desk, 2nd September: Congress MP Bimol Akoijam has launched a sharp critique against the central government, accusing it of failing to prevent the ongoing violence in Manipur, which has now escalated to include drone attacks on residential areas. Akoijam questioned the accountability of the government, asking who would be held responsible for the deaths and destruction caused by the violence.
In a strong statement, Akoijam noted that the Manipur state government claimed to have acted with the consent of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah during the 15-month crisis. He accused the central government of having “blood on their hands” and warned that the struggle in Manipur is far from over.
The criticism comes as the Manipur government condemned an armed attack by suspected Kuki militants on the residents of Koutruk village in Imphal West on September 1. The assault, which involved drones, bombs, and advanced weaponry, resulted in the deaths of two individuals, including a woman, and left several others injured.
The state government expressed deep concern over this act of terror, emphasizing that it occurred at a time when significant efforts were being made to restore peace and normalcy in the region. The violent attack on defenseless villagers is seen as a direct attempt to undermine the ongoing peace initiatives, raising fears of further unrest in Manipur.