Imphal: In a session marked by intense political exchanges, Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed the Rajya Sabha concerning the ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur, emphasizing his commitment to resolving the “sensitive issue” without political bias.
However, his address took a sharp turn as he drew a stark comparison with the situation in Sandeshkhali, West Bengal, directly criticizing the Trinamool Congress (TMC) for what he termed “double standards” regarding violence against women.
Shah acknowledged the grave abuses faced by women from both communities in Manipur, stating, “Many women had to face abuse,” and reiterating the Centre’s condemnation of such incidents. He attributed the outbreak of violence to a High Court order from May 2023, which he said triggered insecurities among the tribal community regarding their reservation status, escalating into a conflict between tribal and non-tribal groups.
He informed the house that 13 meetings were conducted with both communities, and that the resolution was delayed because the meetings continued. He also mentioned that two meetings were conducted during the budget session, and a third and final meeting in Delhi would be conducted soon.
Shifting his focus to West Bengal, Shah accused the TMC of hypocrisy, alleging that while condemning the Manipur violence, they had failed to address similar abuses in Sandeshkhali. “There was nothing in West Bengal, and yet hundreds of women were abused in Sandeshkhali. No action was taken in the RG Kar hospital incident. Your government did nothing…And a person of your own party was behind it, whom you had to suspend,” he asserted, highlighting the perceived inaction of the West Bengal government. “We support neither, but you cannot have double stands,” he added.
Shah also clarified the government’s stance on President’s Rule in Manipur, stating, “The Union government is not in favour of continuing President’s Rule in the State even for a single day.” He moved the resolution for Rajya Sabha approval of the Presidential proclamation, which was subsequently confirmed by Parliament, imposing President’s rule in the state.
Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora, speaking on the matter, echoed the sentiment of seeking a peaceful resolution, stating, “All the parties are concerned about Manipur. We want peace, development, progress, and stability. The Union Home Minister rightly said that this is not something that should be politicised. Imposing the President’s rule is not something that any government would want to do. Politicians and political parties must also work with the government.”
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