Congress Slams PM's Insensitivity on Manipur Crisis

New Delhi

Fresh violence in Manipur has led to sharp criticism from the Congress, accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of ignoring the suffering in the state. On Sunday, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh shared on X that violence has intensified in five districts—Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur—over the last 24 hours.

The unrest started after protests erupted over the arrest of a leader from the Meitei group Arambai Tenggol. To control the situation, authorities imposed curfews and suspended internet and mobile services in these areas.

Ramesh blamed the BJP for winning the 2022 Manipur assembly elections but failing to maintain peace. Since May 3, 2023, the state has seen chaos, with hundreds killed, thousands displaced, and religious places destroyed.

The central government formed a Commission of Inquiry in June 2023, but its report has been delayed several times and is now expected in November 2025. In August 2023, the Supreme Court described the situation as an absolute breakdown of constitutional machinery.

Ramesh criticized PM Modi for his silence, while only the Home Minister visited the state. Congress had earlier demanded President’s Rule, which was imposed in February 2025 after a no-confidence motion against the Chief Minister. However, Ramesh said the condition remains unstable, with even the Governor needing a helicopter for safe travel.

He questioned Modi’s priorities, highlighting his many foreign visits and inaugurations but no meetings with Manipur’s leaders or civil groups. Ramesh called Modi’s silence shocking, saying the people of Manipur and the country suffer due to this neglect.