The Congress party has accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of creating fissures among communities in Manipur with its “politics of hate”, leading to a total breakdown of law and order in the state. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge urged people to exercise restraint and called for peace to prevail. Rahul Gandhi expressed his concern over the deteriorating law and order situation in Manipur and called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to focus on restoring peace and normalcy. The Congress demanded the dismissal of the BJP government in Manipur and the imposition of President’s Rule. They also called for the resignation or sacking of Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
The Manipur government issued “shoot at sight” orders to contain the spiraling violence between tribals and the majority Meitei community, which has displaced more than 9,000 people from their villages. The Army and Assam Rifles had to be deployed to contain the widespread rioting. More troops are being brought in from Nagaland, and the Indian Air Force is flying in reinforcements from Guwahati and Tezpur.
The Congress accused the BJP of betraying the people’s mandate and polarising Karnataka while Manipur is in flames. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh called for stern action to restore peace, normalcy, and tranquillity in the northeastern state. He also alleged that Congress workers, leaders, and critics of the chief minister are being attacked in Manipur.
The clashes between the Naga and Kuki communities intensified overnight after they organized a “Tribal Solidarity March.” The forces rescued 9,000 people from the violence-hit areas and provided shelter. The Army, Assam Rifles, and state police contained the violence by the morning.
