Manipur Congress slams BJP government for failing to convene assembly session amidst crisis

The Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) has come down strongly on the state's BJP government for its failure to summon a regular session of the Manipur Legislative Assembly. Keisham Meghachandra, the president of MPCC, denounced the government's actions, accusing it of undermining the democratic process and sidelining the rights of legislators and ministers.

Speaking at a press conference held at Congress Bhawan on August 21, Keisham Meghachandra voiced his concerns over the ongoing social unrest in Manipur for the past three months. He criticized the state government's inaction in convening even a regular monsoon session of the Manipur Legislative Assembly during this critical period, deeming it unfortunate and unacceptable.

Meghachandra highlighted that the Congress party, along with nine other like-minded political parties, has repeatedly urged the governor of the state to call a special session. The purpose of this demand was to utilize the assembly as a platform to address the ongoing communal crisis in Manipur. However, their pleas went unanswered, and the state government's decision not to hold even a regular monsoon session raises concerns about a potential constitutional crisis.

The MPCC president expressed his disappointment at the denial of the assembly session, asserting that this refusal deprives MLAs and ministers of their rights. He criticized ruling MLAs and ministers for their silence, holding them responsible for any consequences stemming from the lack of session.

Explaining the procedural aspect, Meghachandra noted that as per the rules, notice must be issued to the legislature at least 15 days before the commencement of a session. However, this timeframe was not met, as the notification should have been issued by August 16. This has led the Congress party to believe that this year's monsoon session might not be held.

Meghachandra said that such actions are unprecedented in any part of India. He expressed skepticism about the possibility of an emergency session following the denial of the normal session, as emergency sessions limit the privilege of MLAs to voice their concerns on the assembly floor.

Questioning the motive behind not calling the session, Meghachandra speculated that the decision might have been influenced by a desire to shield BJP MLAs. He criticized the state and central governments for their perceived lack of seriousness in addressing the ongoing violence that has resulted in loss of life and property in Manipur.

Meghachandra raised concerns about the government's intentions, suggesting a hidden agenda to disintegrate Manipur against the backdrop of the prevailing crisis.