NEW DELHI

Congress President and Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led central government over the worsening law and order situation in Manipur, stating that the border state is “bleeding again because of BJP’s incompetence.”

Condemning the recent killing of four innocent civilians in a fresh wave of violence, Kharge extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. Highlighting the gravity of the prolonged crisis that began in May 2023, he noted that over 300 lives have been lost, while more than 24,530 people continue to languish in relief camps under pathetic conditions, with women, children, and vulnerable groups bearing the worst brunt.

Accusing the ruling establishment of political failure, Kharge asserted that measures such as imposing President’s Rule, replacing the Chief Minister, and reinstalling its own administration had failed to yield any peace. He also criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging that he did not visit the state for nearly 29 months after the conflict erupted and failed to live up to assurances made in Parliament.

Calling the continuing bloodshed a “grave indictment of the BJP’s failure to ensure law and order, protect constitutional rights, and safeguard national security,” Kharge posed three direct questions to PM Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah:

• The Peace Committee: What happened to the Peace Committee constituted by Amit Shah in June 2023, and what concrete measures have been taken to restore order and address security challenges in the sensitive border state?

• Rehabilitation and Relief: What action has been taken on the Supreme Court-appointed Justice Gita Mittal Committee’s recommendations? He questioned why thousands remain displaced and pointed to the Supreme Court’s flagging of 31 unnatural deaths in relief camps, asking what is being done to secure the safety, dignity, and rehabilitation of affected families.

•  Accountability: After more than three years, over 300 deaths, President’s Rule, and a change in leadership, who will take responsibility for this monumental governance failure, and how many more lives must be lost before definitive action is taken?

Emphasising that Manipur’s security and stability cannot be held “hostage to the BJP’s political expediency,” the Congress chief reiterated that the state deserves justice, dignity, constitutional rights, and lasting peace.

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