Congress criticizes PM Modi’s neglect towards brutal violence in Manipur

New Delhi: Congress General Secretary in charge of communication, Jairam Ramesh, took to Twitter to criticize the Prime Minister's long silence on the ongoing communal atrocities in Manipur, accusing him of failing to address "colossal governance failures."

“After more than 1,800 hours of incomprehensible and unforgivable silence, the Prime Minister finally spoke in Manipur for a sum total of 30 seconds. Subsequently, the PM attempted to divert attention from the humanitarian tragedy and colossal governance failures in Manipur by equating crimes against women in other states, particularly those governed by the Opposition, while ignoring atrocities on women in states like MP, UP, and Gujarat,” said Jairam Ramesh.

During multiple international visits, the Prime Minister made no remarks about Manipur, nor were there any reforms to implement the order in the state. Congress leader Ramesh further tweeted, "He has made no appeal for peace, nor asked for the Chief Minister of Manipur to step down. While he has commented on this one video that has surfaced, it is only one example of the hundreds of incidents of barbaric violence in Manipur."

"The perpetrators of these crimes have been arrested in Congress-governed states within 24 hours. In Manipur, it took 15 days to register an FIR against unknown persons, and today, 64 days later, the Chief Minister of Manipur claims that arrests have been made. There has been a complete and total collapse of law and order and administration in Manipur," said the Congress MP.

Graphic depictions of sexual abuse against two women in Manipur have been in circulation, showcasing the extent of violence happening in the state. On Thursday, the Prime Minister told reporters, "Today, my heart is filled with pain and anger. The incident in Manipur, which has surfaced, is a very shameful incident for any civilized society. It has shamed 140 crore countrymen. The incident that happened with the women in Manipur can never be forgiven. I assure the countrymen that no one will be spared."

The Prime Minister added, "I urge all the CMs to further strengthen the law and order situation in their respective states, especially for the protection of mothers and daughters, and take action against the perpetrators. Whether the incident is in Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Manipur, or any part of the country, rising above politics, law and order are important."

Establishing the ethos of the newly formed opposition coalition, INDIA, Jairam Ramesh said, "This is too little too late. Mere words won't do anymore. Actions must speak louder. The Prime Minister and the Home Minister cannot escape accountability. The Chief Minister of Manipur should step down immediately. INDIA will continue to demand answers to ensure a path towards peace and reconciliation in Manipur."

Additionally, Congress leader P. Chidambaram tweeted, "The PM has broken his silence on Manipur. He did not spare a thought for the people of Manipur when he was travelling to the US, France, UAE, and various states in India to inaugurate something or other. I wonder what prompted him to remember Manipur? Was it the horrific video of the unspeakable crime against the women of Manipur? Was it the Supreme Court taking cognizance of the massive violation of human rights in Manipur? The first thing the PM should do is to dismiss the discredited government of Biren Singh and impose President's Rule."

The opposition questions the Prime Minister's stance on the humanitarian atrocities in the state of Manipur, urging a significant change in governance.

PTI Input