Union Home Minister Amit Shah has canceled his scheduled election rallies in Maharashtra and is headed back to Delhi as the situation in Manipur continues to be volatile, according to sources. Shah returned to Delhi as the Imphal Valley continues to witness violent protests triggered by the recent killing of six civilians, including three women and children, in Jiribam district.
Fresh Violence Sparks Outrage
The violence, which escalated on Saturday night, led to enraged mobs torching the residences of several political leaders, including:
- Govindas Konthoujam (PWD Minister, Ningthoukhong)
- Y Radheshyam (BJP MLA, Hiyanglam, Langmeidong Bazar)
- Paonam Brojen (BJP MLA, Wangjing Tentha, Thoubal district)
- Th Lokeshwar (Congress MLA, Khundrakpam, Imphal East)
The affected legislators and their families were not present during the attacks. Protesters also attempted to storm the ancestral home of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh in Imphal East. Security forces, including the Assam Rifles and BSF, intervened with tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the mob, halting them 100-200 meters from Singh’s residence.
Curfew Imposed as Protests Intensify
An indefinite curfew has been imposed in parts of the state following these incidents. Protesters have blocked roads, burned tyres, and placed barricades, further complicating efforts to restore order.
Congress Criticizes BJP Over Manipur Crisis
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge issued a scathing statement condemning the BJP’s handling of the Manipur crisis, alleging deliberate negligence to fuel divisive politics.
“Since May 2023, Manipur has been grappling with unimaginable pain and violence, destroying the future of its people. It seems the BJP wants Manipur to burn to serve its hateful politics.”
Kharge also highlighted the loss of at least 17 lives since November 7, with the violence spilling over to neighboring northeastern states. He accused the BJP of failing to address the root causes of the unrest, asserting that:
“Even if you visit Manipur in the future, its people will never forgive you for abandoning them during their darkest hours.”
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