Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, expressed serious concern about the ongoing violence in Manipur. On Saturday, he called the situation “deeply disturbing” and urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit the troubled state. He emphasized the need to restore peace and help heal the region.
In a post on X, Gandhi wrote, “The recent string of violent clashes and continuing bloodshed in Manipur is deeply disturbing. After more than a year of division and suffering, every Indian hoped that the Central and State governments would have made every effort at reconciliation and found a solution.”
He added, “I urge the PM once again to visit Manipur and work towards restoring peace and healing in the region.”
The recent string of violent clashes and continuing bloodshed in Manipur is deeply disturbing.
After more than a year of division and suffering, it was the hope of every Indian that the Central and State governments would have made every effort at reconciliation and found a…
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 16, 2024
The situation in Manipur worsened this week. On Saturday, officials reimposed a curfew in Imphal West District. This came after authorities had relaxed restrictions on November 16 from 5:00 am to 8:00 pm. However, an order from District Magistrate Kirankumar revoked the relaxation, citing law and order issues.
The order stated, “Now, due to the developing law and order situation in the district, the above-mentioned curfew relaxation order stands cancelled with immediate effect, i.e., from 4:30 pm on November 16, 2024. A total curfew is imposed with effect from 4:30 pm on November 16, 2024, until further orders.” Essential service workers, such as those in healthcare, remain exempt.
Tensions escalated earlier this week. Several women vendors protested after the alleged abduction of six individuals. Later, three bodies were found. It is unclear if the bodies belong to the missing persons. Violence has plagued Manipur since May 2023, with no resolution in sight.
In response, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) extended the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), 1958, in six police station areas. This extension, effective until March 31, 2025, aims to assist security forces in maintaining order.
The areas under AFSPA include Sekmai, Lamsang, Lamlai, Jiribam, Leimakhong, and Moirang. These police stations fall in Imphal West, Imphal East, Jiribam, Kangpokpi, and Bishnupur districts. According to the MHA, this decision followed a detailed security review and consultation with stakeholders.
Manipur remains on edge. Curfews, protests, and extended AFSPA highlight the state’s fragile security. Gandhi’s appeal to the Prime Minister underscores the urgency for immediate action and long-term solutions.
