Imphal, July 30: The 21-member parliamentary delegation of the opposition’s Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) has termed the Manipur ethnic violence as a “national security issue.” The delegation arrived in Manipur on a two-day visit, during which they interacted with affected people in relief camps in Churachandpur, Bishnupur, and Imphal West districts.
On the second day, the delegation met Governor Anusuiya Uikey and submitted a memorandum. The Governor expressed pain and grief, agreeing with the MPs’ observations. She suggested holding talks with representatives of civil society organizations from both communities to restore peace and maintain the traditional peaceful coexistence.
The MPs expressed shock and sadness over the violence and emphasized the need to address anger and alienation among all communities promptly. They pointed out the failure of both union and state governments to protect lives and properties, with over 140 deaths, 500 injuries, 5,000 burnt houses, and 60,000 displaced individuals from the Meitei and Kuki communities.
The memorandum highlighted the pathetic condition of relief camps, urging priority attention to the well-being of children and uncertain future prospects for students. The continuous internet ban was criticized for promoting unsubstantiated rumors, further fueling mistrust.
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The MPs called for urgent rehabilitation and resettlement of affected individuals to bring peace and harmony. They urged the Governor to inform the union government about the breakdown of law and order in Manipur and seek their assistance in restoring normalcy.
The delegation criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not visiting the violence-hit state and failing to restore peace in nearly three months. They suggested the PM lead an all-party delegation to involve all communities in restoring peace.
The ethnic violence in Manipur, which started on May 3, has claimed over 160 lives, injured 600, and caused extensive property damage.
Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha member Sushmita Dev, part of the delegation, blamed the BJP and its governments for the crisis, expressing disappointment over the government’s inaction.
The MPs’ visit aimed to address the concerns of affected people and highlight the urgency of resolving the situation. The delegation believes that immediate actions are required for rehabilitation and reconciliation to restore peace and normalcy in Manipur.
