Imphal: A heated exchange unfolded in the Rajya Sabha as Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge called for a comprehensive inquiry into the protracted violence in Manipur, demanding the government present a White Paper detailing the crisis.
Kharge criticized the Centre’s handling of the situation, accusing them of inaction and indifference to the suffering of the state’s residents. He cited the extensive loss of life, displacement, and economic collapse as evidence of governmental failure, questioning Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s absence from the region.
Kharge asserted that the former Manipur Chief Minister should have immediately resigned upon the outbreak of violence, and further claimed that the BJP prioritizes protecting the Prime Minister over restoring peace in Manipur.
In a sharp rebuttal, Home Minister Amit Shah vehemently defended the government’s actions, dismissing the Congress’s claims as politically motivated. He clarified the imposition of President’s Rule, asserting it was a necessary measure taken after the Chief Minister’s resignation and the absence of any alternative government formation.
Shah contrasted the Centre’s approach with past Congress-led governments, accusing them of using President’s Rule for political gain. He emphasized the recent stabilization of the situation in Manipur, stating that there had been no violence for several months.
Shah directly addressed Kharge’s demand for a White Paper, countering that political attacks would not heal the wounds of those affected by the violence. He refuted the notion that the Centre had failed to manage the crisis, arguing that the situation had been brought under control. He further compared the current scenario to the Congress’s tenure in Manipur, citing instances of prolonged curfews and high encounter-related fatalities. Shah also drew a distinction between different forms of internal conflict, highlighting the unique challenges of addressing racial violence versus other types of unrest.
Kharge reiterated his plea for the Prime Minister to visit Manipur and address the law and order situation, emphasizing the urgency of restoring peace. He accused the government of neglecting the needs of the people, particularly regarding the provision of essential supplies.