Bimol Akoijam’s Critique of Centre’s Silence on Manipur Crisis: A Call for National Attention
In a poignant speech during the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address, Congress MP Bimol Akoijam took the Union government to task for failing to address the ongoing crisis in Manipur. The ethnic violence that has plagued the state since May 2023 was conspicuously absent from the President’s Address, despite its far-reaching consequences for the people of Manipur. Akoijam’s remarks reflect growing frustration over the Centre’s handling of the situation.
Congress MP Bimol Akoijam Slams Centre for Ignoring Manipur Crisis in President’s Speech
Akoijam, representing Inner Manipur, voiced his deep concern about the government’s continued silence regarding the Manipur crisis. “I had hoped that the President’s Address would shed light on the ongoing ethnic conflict in my state, but there was no mention of the tragedy we are facing. This omission is a reflection of the government’s disregard for the suffering of the people in Manipur,” Akoijam said.
The conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities has led to widespread violence, displacement, and loss of life. Yet, the Centre’s lack of acknowledgment in the President’s Address has left many questioning the government’s commitment to resolving the issue.
Manipur Conflict: A Neglected Crisis in the President’s Address
The absence of any reference to the Manipur conflict in the President’s Address has sparked political controversy. Akoijam accused the ruling BJP of intentionally avoiding any mention of the crisis in order to downplay its significance both nationally and internationally. He argued that this was part of a broader attempt to silence the voices of those affected by the violence.
“The government is trying to make this crisis invisible, ignoring the pain and anguish of the people of Manipur,” Akoijam said. He emphasized that this was not just a regional issue but one that concerns the entire nation and requires immediate attention and intervention from the Centre.
Akoijam Calls for Immediate Action on Manipur’s Ethnic Violence and Suffering
Akoijam’s speech highlighted the urgency of addressing the ongoing ethnic violence. The Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, which have been at the heart of the conflict, continue to suffer as violence escalates. The MP called on the government to step in and take concrete steps toward reconciliation and peace.
“The people of Manipur are in pain, and the government’s continued indifference is not acceptable. It’s time for the Centre to show leadership and take responsibility for bringing peace to our state,” Akoijam said.
The MP also stressed the importance of an inclusive approach to resolving the conflict, one that recognizes the diverse communities in Manipur and ensures that all voices are heard in the peace process. He warned that without meaningful action, the situation could spiral further out of control, leading to even more suffering for the people of the state.
The Call for Accountability and Compassionate Leadership
Akoijam concluded his speech by demanding accountability from the government for its failure to address the crisis. He urged the Union government to prioritize the resolution of the conflict and to engage with all stakeholders to find a peaceful and lasting solution.
“The people of Manipur have waited too long for justice. It’s time for the government to act. The people of my state need more than words; they need action,” Akoijam stressed.
With no end in sight for the ongoing violence, Akoijam’s calls for intervention highlight the urgent need for national attention to the situation in Manipur. As the crisis continues, it remains to be seen whether the Centre will respond with the leadership and urgency required to restore peace and stability to the region.