Indian National Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge Urges President Murmu to Intervene in Manipur Crisis

New Delhi, 19th November 2024: On Tuesday, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge wrote to President Draupadi Murmu, urging her intervention to address the ongoing crisis in Manipur. Kharge criticized both the central and state governments for failing to restore peace and normalcy in the region over the past 18 months.

In his letter, Kharge described the situation as a “grave tragedy,” with over 300 lives lost, including women and children, and nearly 100,000 people displaced, living in relief camps. He expressed concern that the people of Manipur had lost faith in the authorities due to the persistent insecurity and violence they were enduring.

Kharge also highlighted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had not visited Manipur since May 2023, despite public demands, while opposition leaders, including Kharge, had visited multiple times. He criticized the Prime Minister’s refusal to visit as difficult to understand.

The Congress leader emphasized the constitutional responsibility of the President to intervene to ensure the safety of Manipur’s citizens. He expressed hope that, with the President’s involvement, the people of Manipur would regain peace and dignity.

The violence in Manipur, driven by ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, has resulted in over 220 deaths since last year. The Congress has called for the resignation of Home Minister Amit Shah, blaming him and the state government for mishandling the situation. The Manipur Assembly recently passed a resolution calling for a large-scale operation against Kuki militants and a review of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA). Additionally, the internet suspension across several districts has been extended until November 20, underscoring the ongoing turmoil in the region.