New Delhi - Opposition MPs, who recently returned from a two-day visit to Manipur, expressed grave concern over the state's situation and questioned the continuance of Chief Minister N Biren Singh in office. The delegation, consisting of MPs from the opposition INDIA bloc, reported that the people of Manipur had lost confidence in their Chief Minister, urging the government to take decisive action.
The ethnic conflict in Manipur has been persisting for nearly three months, and the MPs emphasized the urgent need for resolution to prevent potential security challenges for the nation. They accused both the Centre and the state government of not taking sufficient and strong measures to address the "very serious" situation prevailing in Manipur.
Congress leader in Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, highlighted the fear and uncertainty prevailing among the people of Manipur. He asserted that both Meitei and Kuki communities expressed their protest against the Chief Minister, yet no action has been taken against him, eroding public confidence in the government.
The delegation of 21 MPs from the Indian Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) also brought attention to the appalling conditions in relief camps and the growing division between the Meitei and Kuki communities, likening the situation to two separate countries.
During their visit, the MPs met with Manipur Governor Anusuiya Uikey and presented a memorandum detailing their observations. However, the government, particularly the Prime Minister, faced criticism from the opposition for not making a statement before a debate on the Manipur issue in Parliament.
The situation in Manipur has led to the submission of a no-confidence motion by the opposition in Lok Sabha, while the government defended its handling of the matter, claiming to have been more proactive compared to previous administrations during similar ethnic violence in the state.
The MPs stressed the urgency of restoring peace and bridging the divide between the communities in Manipur. They expressed concern over the lack of basic necessities like food, medicine, and education facilities for the affected population, particularly those residing in relief camps.
The opposition MPs demanded immediate rehabilitation and resettlement of the affected people to restore peace and harmony in Manipur. With more than 160 lives lost and hundreds injured since the outbreak of ethnic clashes, the situation has escalated to a critical state, necessitating immediate attention and action from the government.