New Delhi, Aug 10: In a significant address during the parliamentary debate on a no-confidence motion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shed light on the situation in Manipur, where a series of violent incidents have left over 150 people dead. While expressing the government’s willingness to engage in a discussion on the matter, PM Modi lamented the opposition’s absence from the debate, attributing it to political motivations.
Speaking before the Lok Sabha, PM Modi strongly condemned the grievous crimes committed against women in Manipur, labeling them as “unforgivable.” He highlighted the combined efforts of both the central and state governments in pursuing justice for the victims and holding the perpetrators accountable.
“We were prepared to discuss the situation in Manipur had there been an interest from the opposition. The Home Minister extended an invitation for such discussions. In fact, the Home Minister provided a comprehensive overview of Manipur’s situation during a two-hour discourse. Both the State and Central governments are diligently working towards ensuring that the culprits face severe consequences. I want to reassure the nation that sustained efforts are being undertaken to restore peace in the near future. To the mothers and daughters of Manipur, this nation stands united with you, and this house stands in support,” PM Modi affirmed.
Beyond reassurances, the Prime Minister pledged a resurgence of development for Manipur, underlining the commitment of the central government to facilitate the state’s progress.
On a preceding day, Union Home Minister Amit Shah also addressed the Manipur crisis in the Lok Sabha. He categorically dismissed speculations of the President’s rule imposition or the replacement of Chief Minister N Biren Singh. Shah emphasized the cooperative stance of the state government with the Centre in their joint endeavor to restore tranquility to the strife-torn northeastern state.
Shah underscored the absence of bandhs, curfews, or blockades during the six-year tenure of the BJP government in Manipur. He characterized the ongoing turmoil in Manipur as ethnic violence stemming from specific circumstances and urged against its politicization.
“Regrettable incidents have transpired in Manipur. However, it’s even more disheartening that some quarters are attempting to exploit this for political gain. Prior to the commencement of this session, I extended invitations for discussions, advocating an unhindered dialogue without time constraints. I have been prepared for a substantive discussion since day one, but it seems that they are inclined toward protest rather than constructive conversation. If my propositions were not deemed satisfactory, they could have requested a statement from the Prime Minister himself,” Shah elaborated during his extensive two-hour address.
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As the reverberations of PM Modi and Home Minister Shah’s declarations echo within the parliamentary halls, the focus remains on the strategic steps necessary to restore peace and stability to Manipur.
Shah also disclosed that a total of 152 individuals lost their lives in the state, with 14,898 arrests made and 1,106 FIRs registered in connection with the incidents. To curb the violence, Shah highlighted the deployment of 36,000 paramilitary personnel, resulting in a notable reduction in violent occurrences. He underscored the establishment of a unified command, aimed at streamlining coordination among the Indian Army, BSF, CRPF, Assam Rifles, and Manipur Police.
Moreover, Shah shed light on the central government’s diplomatic efforts, indicating that discussions with Myanmar have taken place with the goal of curbing infiltration. “Our engagement with Myanmar is aimed at preventing infiltration. We are dedicatedly pursuing this endeavor,” Shah affirmed, emphasizing the comprehensive approach being taken to address the complex situation.
