Image Credit - Indian National Congress
Congress Demands Fresh Elections in Manipur Crisis
The Indian National Congress has intensified its demand for immediate fresh elections in Manipur, citing the prolonged ethnic violence and the central government’s failure to restore normalcy even after the imposition of President’s Rule. The party accused the Modi government of ignoring one of the worst humanitarian crises in recent Indian history.
Speaking at a press conference held at the All India Congress Committee headquarters, Congress’ Manipur in-charge Saptagiri Ulaka condemned the ongoing instability in the state and questioned the government’s intent.
Manipur Elections Demand
“It has been one of the gravest humanitarian crises in India. People fear that this violence was manufactured and two years have now gone by,” he said, describing the situation as a breakdown of law and order with deep political implications. According to Ulaka, President’s Rule came too little, too late.
“We have been demanding a discussion on Manipur but Modi ji did not break his silence. We had been demanding imposition of President’s rule to control the situation but it was only imposed after 20 months. The current situation on the ground is far from normal despite the imposition of President’s rule,” he added.
Ethnic Violence Unabated
Ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities erupted on May 3, 2023, leaving over 260 people dead, more than 1,500 injured, and displacing over 70,000. Despite the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh and the implementation of President’s Rule in February 2025, violence and distrust continue to engulf the state.
“The violence in the state is not ending,” Ulaka stated bluntly, highlighting that the situation remains precarious even after direct central intervention.
Congress Criticizes Modi’s Silence
The Congress party also targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his continued silence on the crisis. Jairam Ramesh, party general secretary, was scathing in his critique.
“Most importantly, the PM continues to avoid and shun Manipur. He has met with nobody from the state. He has gone all over the world but has not found the time nor the inclination, nor the sensitivity to visit the troubled state and reach out to the people there.”
Ulaka also raised concerns about the lack of clear communication from the Centre: “The government is not interested in bringing peace in Manipur. We expect the prime minister to assure the citizens of Manipur on how it will return to normality.”
The Congress reiterated that only a fresh democratic mandate can begin to heal the deep social and political fractures in Manipur. The party maintained that conducting new elections would be the first meaningful step toward ensuring accountability, justice, and the return of peace in the strife-torn region.
