New Delhi – BJP National President JP Nadda has issued a scathing response to Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, defending the government’s handling of the Manipur crisis and challenging the Congress party’s narrative about the northeastern state’s situation.
In a strongly-worded letter dated November 21, Nadda accused the Congress of distorting facts and ignoring significant progress made under the current administration. His letter follows Kharge’s recent communication with President Droupadi Murmu, in which the Congress leader criticized the government for its approach to ongoing challenges in Manipur.
Highlighting achievements in the state, Nadda wrote, “The percentage of people suffering from multidimensional poverty has reduced from over 20% in 2013 to just over 5% in 2022.” He contrasted this with what he described as a tumultuous legacy left by the Congress, particularly referencing the 1990s, which he called a “black period” marked by rampant violence that claimed thousands of lives and displaced countless others.
Nadda also pointed to a 2011 blockade under the Congress-led regime, when Manipur was isolated for over 120 days, causing a surge in fuel prices and crippling the state’s economy. “Petrol prices and LPG costs soared to nearly four times higher than the rest of the country,” he added.
Defending the BJP’s swift response to recent violence, Nadda stated, “With the first incident of violence that was reported, our government – both at the Centre and the State – acted immediately to stabilise the situation and protect the people.” He also noted that ongoing investigations are being led by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), which he described as “one of the most efficient agencies in the country.”
The BJP president further accused Congress of sensationalising the situation in Manipur for political mileage, stating, “The complete failure of India’s security and administrative protocols under your government continues to haunt the region.”
The exchange between the two political heavyweights comes as efforts to restore peace in Manipur remain underway. Observers note that the pointed rhetoric signals a sharpening divide between the two major national parties over the handling of sensitive issues in the region.
While the BJP touts its achievements in reducing poverty and improving governance in Manipur, the Congress continues to raise questions about the Centre’s approach to managing recent unrest. As political tensions escalate, all eyes remain on the government’s ability to deliver on its promises of peace and stability in the volatile state.
Read More: Meghalaya Police Suspends Physical Efficiency Test Amidst Irregularities