Manipur MP Seeks Amit Shah's Intervention for Peace and Security

Congress MP from Inner Manipur, A Bimol Akoijam, expressed deep concern over the ongoing violence in Manipur in a letter to Home Minister Amit Shah. He urged immediate action to control the situation and ensure security forces act decisively.

Akoijam highlighted the severe impact of the violence, noting that hundreds of lives have been lost and around 60,000 people have become homeless. He emphasised that many internally displaced persons (IDPs) are still living in deplorable conditions in relief camps.

Call for Thorough Investigation

The Congress MP called for a thorough investigation into allegations involving illegal immigrants, foreign elements, and the illicit drug mafia. He stressed the need to address these issues to restore peace and normalcy in Manipur.

Akoijam also urged Shah to investigate reports of security agencies acting in a partisan manner during the crisis. He called for steps to address trust deficits and ensure accountability if these allegations are proven true.

Impact on Livelihoods and Economy

The prolonged violence has severely affected livelihoods and the state's economy. Akoijam noted that extortion and other crimes have further worsened the situation. He questioned whether such a crisis would have been allowed to persist if it had occurred in states like UP, Bihar, or Maharashtra.

He expressed regret that the lives of people in Manipur seem to matter less to the government. Akoijam stated, "I deeply regret that the lives of the people in Manipur do not seem to matter to this government of India, of which you are a prominent leader."

Immediate Corrective Measures

Akoijam called for immediate corrective measures, including ensuring security forces act decisively to control the violence. He also urged for administrative reforms to deliver public goods and services effectively and fairly, rather than reinforcing exclusivist identities.

He emphasised the need for concrete steps to address the suffering of IDPs and ensure their resettlement with dignity. Akoijam also called for restoring free movement on highways with full security by deploying adequate armed forces.

Review of Existing Policies

Akoijam called for a review of existing policies with armed groups, particularly the controversial Suspension of Operations (SoO) with Kuki armed groups. He stressed that such measures should not become breeding grounds for violence and illegal activities.

He also advocated initiating dialogue among people and healing processes to address trauma caused by the violence. Akoijam's remarks come amid an escalation of violence in Manipur, with internet services suspended in five valley districts and prohibitory orders imposed in three districts.

Escalation of Violence

The state government suspended internet services in five valley districts amid intensified student agitation. Prohibitory orders were imposed in three districts, including an indefinite curfew in Imphal East and West districts.

Clashes between Meitei and Kukis have resulted in over 200 deaths and thousands becoming homeless since May last year. The decision to suspend internet services aimed to curb the use of social media for transmitting images, hate speech, and hate videos.

Akoijam's letter underscores the urgency of addressing the crisis in Manipur through decisive action and comprehensive measures. His call for thorough investigations, administrative reforms, and support for IDPs highlights the need for a multifaceted approach to restore peace and stability in the state.