National: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s arrival in Laos for the ASEAN-India and East Asia summits has sparked significant backlash from opposition leaders, particularly concerning his absence from the conflict-ridden state of Manipur.
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh expressed his discontent on the social media platform X, stating, “The self-anointed non-biological PM is off to Laos.” He criticized Modi’s decision to participate in the 21st ASEAN-India and 19th East Asia Summit while neglecting the ongoing turmoil in Manipur, which has faced escalating violence and unrest since May 2023.
Ramesh questioned the Prime Minister’s priorities, emphasizing, “Why is Mr. Narendra Modi steadfastly refusing to visit the troubled state of Manipur? His refusal to do so is simply beyond any understanding.” He underscored the significance of India’s northeastern states in shaping the country’s foreign policy, noting, “India’s gateway to ASEAN is our northeast.” Ramesh highlighted that the people of Manipur, who have endured immense suffering, “surely deserve such a visit” from their Prime Minister.
While in Vientiane, Modi participated in various cultural events, engaging with the Indian diaspora, Buddhist monks, and enjoying performances of the Lao Ramayana. These activities were intended to showcase the shared cultural heritage between India and Laos.
Modi’s visit coincides with the 10th anniversary of India’s Act East Policy, which seeks to enhance economic and strategic relations with Southeast Asian nations. However, Ramesh challenged the government’s portrayal of this policy, tweeting, “He will, of course, talk much of India’s Act East policy that supposedly began in 2014—no matter that India’s Look East Policy was in existence for almost two decades prior to that.”
As the Prime Minister focuses on international diplomacy, opposition leaders continue to call for greater attention to the pressing issues within Manipur, demanding immediate action and support for those affected by the ongoing crisis.