Manipur: INDIA bloc urges CM to act after killing of three civilians

Leaders of the INDIA bloc in Manipur on October 20 met Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh to discuss the state’s security situation following the killing of three civilians, with former chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh accusing the BJP government of failing to protect lives and property.

The meeting at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat came after three civilians were killed by armed miscreants at Sunurok in Kangpokpi district, near Nongshum in Imphal East district.

The delegation included Ibobi, Congress Legislature Party leader K Meghachandra Singh, Inner Manipur MP Dr Angomcha Bimol Akoijam and representatives of other INDIA bloc parties.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Ibobi alleged that the government had failed to contain violence, irrespective of whether the victims belonged to the Kuki, Naga or Meitei communities.

“If the government is unable to safeguard people’s lives and protect their property, does it have the moral authority to govern?” he asked.

Ibobi said the frequency of killings underscored the need for political parties to come together to discuss ways to restore peace and address the security crisis. He said the Opposition was willing to cooperate with the government, including by approaching central leaders if necessary.

He also criticised the Centre’s response to the continuing violence, accusing the Union government of acting as a “silent spectator” despite its ability to rein in armed groups.

Ibobi said he had urged the chief minister to convey the gravity of the situation to the Centre and seek effective intervention to curb the violence.

Accusing the BJP government of prioritising electoral victory over governance, he also alleged that issues such as unemployment and the state’s development challenges were being neglected.

However, Ibobi stressed that elections should be held as scheduled and that democratic rights must be protected.

“We are not here to derive political mileage. If there is anything that needs to be taken up with the Centre, even on sensitive issues, let all political parties meet and discuss it. If necessary, we will also join in meeting central leaders,” he said.

In a social media post, Chief Minister Khemchand Singh said the meeting reviewed the overall security situation following the killings.

He said INDIA bloc representatives had expressed deep concern over the incident and urged him to convene an all-party meeting in view of the prevailing situation.