Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is set to visit Manipur on July 8, according to party sources.
This visit comes as the northeastern state continues to grapple with severe ethnic violence that has plagued it since May 2023.
During his visit, Rahul Gandhi is expected to tour relief camps and meet with leaders of the Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee. This trip follows a series of criticisms from the Opposition against the central government over its handling of the crisis in Manipur.
The violence in Manipur began on May 3, 2023, during a rally organized by the All Tribals Students Union (ATSU). The rally was held in opposition to the demand for Scheduled Tribe status for the Meitei community, which led to widespread clashes and ongoing unrest.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Rajya Sabha last week, emphasizing that the central government is actively working to restore peace in Manipur. "Our government is committed to normalizing the situation in Manipur. Over 11,000 FIRs have been filed, and more than 500 individuals have been arrested. We are continuously working to reduce incidents of violence and engage with all stakeholders to bring about peace," Modi stated.
Additionally, Union Home Minister Amit Shah conducted a comprehensive review of the security situation in Manipur in June, directing efforts to prevent further violence and restore order. During a one-hour meeting at his office, Shah focused on the strategic deployment of central forces to stabilize the situation.
In the recent Lok Sabha elections, the Congress party emerged victorious in both constituencies from Manipur. Angomcha Bimol Akoijam and Alfred K Arthur were sworn in as MPs during the latest Parliament session.
Rahul Gandhi’s upcoming visit highlights the Congress party’s commitment to addressing the ongoing issues in Manipur and signals a renewed focus on the state’s turbulent situation.