True Normalcy in Manipur Hinges on the Return of Displaced Individuals: Congress Party
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Imphal, Jan 8 (NationPress) The Congress party, serving as the opposition in Manipur, declared on Wednesday that true normalcy cannot be attained in the state unless the violence-impacted displaced individuals are granted permission to return to their homes and villages.
Following a meeting with Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, a party delegation led by veteran leader and former Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh, who served three terms from 2002 to 2017, conveyed their message that merely having a reduction in violence while leaving thousands in relief camps does not constitute peace.
"Normalcy will only be realized when these thousands of individuals residing in relief camps can safely return to their homes," he stated in a press interaction.
The Congress delegation called upon the Governor to implement measures aimed at restoring peace in Manipur and to ensure the safety and rehabilitation of those displaced by violence.
They emphasized the need for cooperative efforts to avert any future crises and to secure lasting peace.
The Governor reportedly showed a willingness to consider the Congress's proposals aimed at addressing the ongoing challenges faced by the state.
The delegation included State Congress President Keisham Meghachandra Singh, Deputy Leader of the Congress Legislature Party Kangujam Ranjit Singh, Chief Whip Lokeshwar Singh, Congress Lok Sabha Member Bimol Akoijam, and MLA Surjakumar Okram.
A representative from Raj Bhavan noted that the Congress delegation discussed the current situation in Manipur and the difficulties experienced by its residents.
The suggestions made by the Congress were welcomed by the Governor, who encouraged collaborative efforts for the well-being of the state's populace.
In a related development, Naga villagers initiated a complete shutdown in Makhan village, located in the Senapati district, to protest the assault of a Naga woman from K. Luingwairam Naga village.
The ethnic violence in Manipur commenced on May 3, 2023, resulting in over 250 fatalities, more than 1,000 injuries, and displacing over 60,000 individuals from their homes and villages during the 18-month-long conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. Additionally, significant property damage occurred during this period.
