Imphal, September 2, 2024: A day after drone attacks by suspected Kuki armed groups targeted the Koutruk and Kadangband areas in Manipur’s Imphal West District, Congress Legislative Party (CLP) Leader and former Chief Minister of Manipur, Okram Ibobi, expressed serious concerns over the safety of key government establishments, including Raj Bhavan and the Chief Minister’s Bungalow.
Manipur Violence: Suspected Kuki Militants Launch Drone Attacks in Koutruk Area: Woman and Village Volunteer Killed, Several Injured Including Journalist
Speaking at a press briefing at Congress Bhavan in Imphal on Monday, O. Ibobi condemned both the Central and State governments for their failure to protect civilians amid the escalating violence in the state. The drone attacks on Sunday resulted in the death of a Meitei woman and left at least ten others injured, including a journalist.
O. Ibobi criticized the ruling government for its inconsistent responses and lack of effective measures to address what he described as a national security threat rather than merely a law and order issue. He questioned the Central Government’s approach to the crisis, expressing skepticism about its ability to manage the situation effectively.
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The CLP leader mentioned that the INDIA Bloc has submitted a memorandum to the Governor, urging immediate action on these pressing concerns. He stressed that a democratically elected government that fails to protect its citizens loses its legitimacy. Additionally, he criticized the Narendra Modi-led Central Government for what he perceives as inadequate intervention, questioning whether a “survival of the fittest” mentality is guiding its response to the crisis in Manipur.
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Joining the press meet, L. Sotinkumar, former Secretary of the CPI Manipur State Council, echoed Ibobi’s concerns. He warned that the conflict could persist indefinitely if not urgently addressed. L. Sotinkumar accused the Government of India of tacitly supporting the perpetrators of the violence by failing to take decisive action, particularly criticizing the Central Security Forces for their inaction.
L. Sotinkumar also condemned the government’s silence regarding the recent drone attacks and criticized the emergence of village volunteers who have been forced to take up arms in self-defense due to the central government’s inaction. He held both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister N. Biren Singh accountable for the ongoing crisis, calling for immediate and effective intervention to restore peace in the state.
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