India has strongly criticized a resolution passed by the European Parliament regarding the ethnic clashes in Manipur state, considering it as interference in its internal affairs.
The violence, which began in May, has resulted in the death of over 130 people and the displacement of tens of thousands who are now residing in temporary shelters. The resolution attributes the clashes to "divisive policies promoting Hindu majoritarianism."
Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a two-day visit to France, where he was honored with the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, the highest civilian award in the country.
The European Parliament engaged in a discussion regarding the violence in Manipur as part of its ongoing plenary session in Strasbourg, France, focusing on human rights violations, democracy, and the rule of law.
In response to the resolution passed by the EU Parliament, India's foreign ministry expressed strong disapproval, considering it an unacceptable interference in India's internal affairs and reflective of a colonial mindset.
The ministry suggested that the EU Parliament should address its own internal issues instead. The conflict in Manipur originated in May when indigenous communities, particularly the Kukis, protested against the demand for tribal status by the Meiteis.
Subsequently, both communities engaged in attacks on each other's properties, vehicles, religious institutions, and residences, resulting in complete segregation between the Kuki and Meitei communities in the state.
The European Parliament's adopted resolution strongly condemned the use of nationalist rhetoric by prominent members of the BJP party. It urged both the federal and Manipur state authorities to facilitate unrestricted delivery of humanitarian aid to those affected, permit independent investigations by monitors, and called upon political leaders to refrain from making inflammatory statements in order to rebuild trust.
The resolution also demanded the restoration of internet services in the region and the repeal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (Afspa), a contentious counter-insurgency law criticized by human rights activists for many years. Indian authorities maintain that they are taking necessary measures to ensure peace and uphold law and order in Manipur.
This incident is not the first instance where India has faced criticism from Western institutions and activists. During Prime Minister Modi's visit to the United States in June, some liberal democrats boycotted his speech to Congress citing concerns over India's human rights record.