Manipur Congress MLAs Offer Resignations Amid Escalating Violence
Manipur Congress MLA Keisham Meghachandra announced on Sunday that he, along with other Congress MLAs, is ready to resign to seek a fresh mandate from the people in hopes of restoring peace in the violence-stricken state. Meghachandra stated on social media, “I, along with all the Congress MLAs, am ready to resign as an MLA if the people of Manipur want to bring a new mandate to bring peace in Manipur.”
The announcement follows violent protests on Saturday, during which the homes of three state ministers and six MLAs, including Chief Minister and BJP leader Biren Singh, were attacked. The unrest erupted after six bodies were discovered in Jiribam, escalating tensions in a state already grappling with inter-communal violence.
Since May of last year, ethnic clashes in Manipur have claimed over 250 lives and displaced more than 60,000 people. The violence stems from disputes over government quotas in jobs and education, exacerbating the state’s fragile social fabric.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah Reviews Security Measures
In response to the escalating crisis, Union Home Minister Amit Shah convened a high-level meeting in Delhi on Sunday to assess Manipur’s security situation. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has urged security forces to take decisive action to restore order and warned of strict measures against perpetrators of violence.
CRPF Director General Anish Dayal Singh visited Manipur to evaluate the situation on the ground and coordinate with local security officials. His visit underscores the central government’s commitment to stabilizing the region.
NPP Withdraws Support from Manipur Government
The National People’s Party (NPP), led by Conrad K. Sangma, announced its withdrawal of support from the BJP-led government in Manipur. In a letter to BJP President JP Nadda, Sangma criticized Chief Minister Biren Singh’s failure to resolve the ongoing crisis, stating, “The Manipur State Government, under the leadership of Shri Biren Singh, has completely failed to resolve the crisis and restore normalcy.”
With seven seats in the 60-member Manipur Assembly, the NPP’s decision adds to the political turbulence, though the BJP continues to hold a majority.
Curfew and Internet Shutdown in Imphal Valley
Authorities imposed an indefinite curfew and suspended internet services across Imphal Valley as violent protests intensified. Demonstrators targeted the homes of state ministers and MLAs following the discovery of six bodies in Jiribam.
The deceased were missing since Monday after a clash between militants and security forces near the Barak River. Their remains, including those of two women and three children, were recovered late last week, triggering widespread outrage.
The escalating violence and political instability in Manipur pose significant challenges to the state’s leadership and underscore the urgent need for comprehensive conflict resolution measures.
