Northeast Desk, 2nd July: In a stirring speech in Parliament, newly elected MP for the Inner Manipur Parliamentary constituency, Dr. Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, criticized central leaders for their silence on the ongoing crisis in Manipur. Speaking during the motion of thanks, Dr. Akoijam expressed his anguish over the Prime Minister’s lack of response and the omission of the Manipur crisis from the presidential speech, highlighting the severe humanitarian issues the state faces.
Dr. Akoijam asserted that the central leaders’ silence is indicative of a lingering colonial mindset in post-colonial India. “This silence is not normal,” he stated, adding that scholars have often noted the continuity of colonial practices in independent India. He emphasized the dire situation in Manipur, where more than 60,000 people have been rendered homeless, and over 200 lives have been lost in a conflict that resembles a civil war. “People are forced to take up arms, fighting and defending their villages, while the Indian state remains a mute spectator,” he lamented.
He questioned the central government’s inability to protect life and property despite the heavy presence of central armed forces in Manipur. “It is one of the most militarized areas in the country, yet how have more than 60,000 people been rendered homeless and thousands of houses destroyed?” he asked. Dr. Akoijam rebuked the Prime Minister for his silence and the absence of any mention of the Manipur crisis in the President’s speech.
Dr. Akoijam called for immediate attention from the central government, stating, “I would keep quiet the moment the Prime Minister opens his mouth and the nationalist party says that Manipur is part of India and we care for the people of that state. Only then will I accept what is nationalism.”
He recalled the contributions of notable Manipuris, such as Major Laishram Jotin, recipient of the Ashok Chakra, and athletes like Mary Kom and Mirabai Chanu. He argued that ignoring the Manipur crisis is tantamount to dishonoring their legacy. Dr. Akoijam expressed sadness over the BJP’s comfortable silence in the face of Manipur’s tragedy.
“Keep your hand on your heart and think about 60,000 homeless people and the lives of women who have become widows due to this crisis. Then you talk about nationalism,” he urged the central leaders.
Dr. Akoijam’s impassioned speech highlights the need for urgent action and empathy from the central government to address the ongoing crisis in Manipur.