Nov 18, 2024 – The Congress party has called for the resignation of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, accusing him of failing to manage the ongoing crisis in Manipur. The demand comes as the northeastern state continues to experience turmoil, with escalating violence and a deteriorating law-and-order situation.
The party alleges that the central government, particularly Shah, has mishandled the unrest, which has led to severe disruptions and loss of life in the region.
Congress’ Accusations and Demands
Congress spokespersons have expressed their concerns, citing the worsening conditions in Manipur despite repeated assurances from the central government.
According to the party, Amit Shah’s policies and decisions have not addressed the root causes of the conflict, leading to prolonged violence.
Senior Congress leaders have pointed out the failure of the Home Ministry to restore peace and normalcy, even after several interventions and visits by Shah to the state.
They argued that the minister’s inability to bring the situation under control is a clear indication of misgovernance, and therefore, he should step down.
The Congress also blamed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government for the increasing communal tensions in Manipur.
They claimed that the central government’s approach has been divisive, further deepening the ethnic strife between communities.
The Congress has been vocal in highlighting the lack of a coherent strategy from the Home Ministry to address the crisis effectively.
The Conflicts of Violence and Responses from the Government
Severe violence has been ongoing in Manipur since May 2023, with a clash between the Meitei and Kuki communities.
The fighting has led to the death of over 200 people and displaced thousands, forcing many to take temporary shelter in camps.
Arson, killing, and attacking security forces have been rampant in the state, leading to a precarious security environment.
Despite dispatching more paramilitary forces and enforcing curfews, the situation is still tense, with occasional outbursts of violence.
During his Manipur tours, Amit Shah vowed to start discussions quickly to restore peace.
However, the opposition has claimed these initiatives have largely been ineffective. The Congress party, along with other political parties, has demanded a full report on the Home Ministry’s steps and a definite course of action to bring the country out of the crisis.
Most importantly, they have called for a special parliamentary session where further discussions could take place, showing growing political pressure on the government to take stern action.
Politico-Political Responses and Public Sentiment
Clariant political reactions have sprung forth with calls to have lacerations aim for Amit Shah. The BJP has dismissed the Congress’s allegations as an attempt to politicise a sensitive issue.
It argued that the government acted immediately to avert any eventuality and accused the Congress of merely trying to pass the buck and score political mileage.
However, the opposition parties have rallied behind the Congress’s stand and have in fact attacked the government due to its lack of any comprehensive strategy to tackle the conflict.
