Agartala, August 18: The Chief of the Tripura unit of the World Meetei Council (WMC), Bankim Singha, has condemned the communal violence in Manipur that has persisted for over a year, leaving thousands homeless, destitute, and resulting in numerous deaths.
Speaking to NEL at an event held at the Agartala Press Club, Singha called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take immediate action to resolve the ongoing crisis, emphasizing that Manipur is an integral part of India, and the violence is a national concern.
Singha recounted the violence that began on May 3, 2023, in Manipur, describing it as a shameful chapter in the state’s history.
“It is deeply distressing to see one community setting fire to another community’s property. Children’s education is being severely disrupted, and people are being forced to live as refugees in their own land. Many have lost their livelihoods, and some have even attempted suicide due to the unbearable suffering,” he lamented.
Singha emphasized that the Prime Minister, as the head of the country, bears the primary responsibility for restoring peace in Manipur.
“Manipur is like a part of the body, and if one part gets burned, the pain is felt throughout the entire body. The Prime Minister must step in to heal this wound before it affects the nation further,” he stated.
He further criticized the Manipur government’s inability to restore normalcy, arguing that while local authorities should work towards peace, it is ultimately the responsibility of the Prime Minister who is powerful like a king and to ensure stability.
“The violence has been ongoing for a year, and this continuing unrest brings a bad name not only to Manipur but also to the community,” Singha added, questioning why the situation has not yet been brought under control.
The event organised by the Tripura state unit of the World Meetei Council, a branch of the Global Meetei Foundation, on the day honoured students who excelled in the class ten and twelve board examinations. The program aimed to inspire the youth of their community towards a better future and contribute to the development of the nation.
Singha’s comments reflect the growing concern among the Meetei community in Tripura, regarding Manipur and seeking a resolution to the violence that has plagued the region for far too long.
