Kanggui: The Sadar Hills District Congress Committee on Tuesday came down heavily on the BJP government in Manipur, alleging complete failure in restoring peace in the state. The committee said the ongoing ethnic conflict which started on May 3, 2023, continues due to lack of effective intervention.
The statement highlighted the situation in the border villages of Kangpokpi, Senapati and Noney districts where tension between Kuki and Naga communities has increased in recent weeks. It said these areas were earlier known for cordial ties and mutual support despite hardship.
According to the SH-DCC, villagers in these remote border regions are now living in fear following reports of house burning, attacks on villages and killing of innocent people. The committee said the areas have remained neglected and poorly guarded by security forces.
It alleged that governance has collapsed and trust among communities has broken down. The Congress body said people are feeling insecure and abandoned while violence continues to spread to new pockets.
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The committee also targeted two senior leaders from the hill districts, accusing them of engaging in a public blame game instead of taking joint responsibility. It said both leaders are pointing fingers at each other to escape accountability.
The SH-DCC said at a time when people expected their leaders to sit together and find a peaceful solution, they are busy trying to score political points. This political rivalry, it said, has deepened the crisis and exposed poor crisis management.
It further observed that peace cannot be achieved only through official statements and routine administrative orders. What is needed is strong political will, transparent governance and impartial handling of the situation on the ground.
The Congress committee demanded immediate steps to stop violence and restore normalcy, with equal protection to all communities. It also called for strict action against individuals or groups involved in inciting violence, spreading hatred and disturbing communal harmony.
One of its key demands is to launch an inclusive peace dialogue without delay, involving political representatives and community leaders from both Kuki and Naga sides. The committee informed that it has already placed this proposal before the Kangpokpi district administration for confidence building.
In its appeal, the SH-DCC urged church leaders, civil society organisations, women’s groups, youth leaders and student bodies of both communities to come forward for reconciliation. It asked people, especially in Kangpokpi and Senapati, to reject violence and misinformation and give peace a chance, while conveying condolences to bereaved families.
