NEW DELHI: Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh has sharply countered Congress leader Jairam Ramesh’s criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “absence” from the conflict-hit state. Singh attributed Manipur’s ongoing challenges to what he called the “sins of the Congress,” singling out decisions made during previous administrations.
“Everyone, including yourself, is aware that Manipur is in turmoil today because of the past sins committed by the Congress,” Singh said, directly addressing Ramesh on X.He cited the repeated settlement of Burmese refugees and the signing of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) Agreement with Myanmar-based militants, which he claimed were initiated under the tenure of then-Union home minister P Chidambaram.
Ramesh had earlier questioned why PM Modi had avoided visiting Manipur despite the state’s prolonged unrest. “Why can’t the Prime Minister go to Manipur and say the same thing there? He has deliberately avoided visiting the state since May 4th, 2023, even as he jets around the country and the world,” Ramesh remarked.
Singh defended Modi’s stance, turning the spotlight on Congress’s past handling of ethnic conflicts in the region. “The clashes began in 1992 and continued at varying intensities for around five years (1992–1997). This period marked one of the bloodiest ethnic conflicts in northeast India, deeply affecting relations between the Naga and Kuki communities in Manipur.”
“Did Shri PV Narasimha Rao, who served as the Prime Minister of India from 1991 to 1996 and was the President of the Indian National Congress during this time, come to Manipur to extend an apology? The Kuki-Paite clashes claimed 350 lives in the state. During most of the Kuki-Paite clashes (1997–1998), Shri IK Gujral was the Prime Minister of India. Did he visit Manipur and say sorry to the people?” Singh asked.
The chief minister argued that Congress’s focus on politics was undermining efforts to resolve Manipur’s core issues. He also referenced his recent apology to victims of the 2023 violence, “The apology I extended today was a sincere act of expressing my grief for the people who have been left displaced and become homeless.”
Singh’s remarks followed his New Year’s Eve address, where he outlined measures for Manipur’s recovery, including a significant reduction in violence and a roadmap for rehabilitation and development. The state has reported a sharp decline in casualties and unrest since May 2023, with over 2,000 displaced families returning home and numerous welfare initiatives launched.
“Our commitment is unwavering. These measures not only aim at rehabilitation but also aspire to propel Manipur towards self-reliance and growth,” the Manipur CM said.
