Imphal | Former Manipur Chief Minister and Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) president Okram Ibobi Singh on Sunday launched a broad attack on the BJP-led governments at the Centre and in the state, accusing them of failing to ensure accountability in education, governance and law and order.

Addressing a press conference in Imphal, the veteran Congress leader cited recent protests led by Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, over recurring examination paper leak controversies and alleged that the Centre had failed to safeguard the interests of students.

Ibobi claimed that since the BJP assumed office at the Centre in 2014, more than 150 examination papers, including those related to the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET), had allegedly been leaked, undermining the credibility of the education system and affecting the future of millions of students.

“Repeated examination irregularities have shattered the hopes and aspirations of young people. The government cannot evade responsibility for these failures,” he said.

The Congress leader further alleged that examination controversies had caused severe distress among students and referred to reports of student suicides linked to academic uncertainty and frustration.Calling for accountability, Ibobi said those responsible for overseeing the education sector should accept moral responsibility.

“The Union Education Minister should take responsibility and resign,” he asserted. Criticism Over Education Portfolio

Turning his attention to the state government, Ibobi expressed concern that Manipur continues to function without a dedicated Education Minister. “Education is the backbone of society. It is unfortunate that Manipur still does not have a full-fledged Education Minister,” he said.

He argued that the absence of a minister exclusively responsible for the department raised questions about the government’s commitment to addressing educational challenges in the state.

Questions Over Cabinet Expansion

The former Chief Minister also criticised the pace of governance under the current administration, alleging that the Council of Ministers had not been adequately expanded despite several months having passed since the formation of the new government.

According to Ibobi, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh is currently handling more than 20 departments, a situation he described as administratively unsustainable.

“How can one individual effectively manage so many departments? What can the people expect from such a system of governance?” he asked. He contended that the concentration of multiple portfolios under the Chief Minister could affect administrative efficiency and policy implementation.

Raises Issue of Naga Civilian Killings

Ibobi also highlighted the case involving the killing of six Naga civilians whose bodies were recovered on June 10, stating that their families were still waiting for justice. He urged authorities to expedite investigations and ensure that those responsible are identified and prosecuted.

“The families continue to wait and cry for justice. The rule of law must prevail, and those responsible should be brought to justice,” he said.

The remarks come amid continuing political debate in Manipur over governance, security and administrative issues, with opposition parties increasingly seeking to hold the government accountable on matters ranging from education and public administration to law and order.

As the Monsoon Session of Parliament begins and national attention focuses on issues such as examination irregularities and governance, Ibobi’s comments signal the Congress party’s intention to intensify its criticism of both the Centre and the BJP-led government in Manipur on questions of accountability and public administration.