BJP, Congress spar amid renewed Manipur violence

Fresh violence in Manipur has fueled a heated political clash between the BJP and Congress, with both parties blaming each other for the crisis. BJP president JP Nadda accused Congress of spreading a “false and politically motivated narrative” about the unrest. His remarks came after Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge sought President Droupadi Murmu’s intervention, alleging the Centre’s failure to resolve the situation.

Nadda countered, calling the unrest a legacy of Congress’ “abject failure” during its rule. He criticized Congress for sensationalizing the issue and accused the party of fostering foreign forces that undermine India’s progress. He also blamed Congress for legitimizing illegal migration, which worsened regional tensions.

Highlighting past Congress rule, Nadda reminded Kharge of the violent 1990s in Manipur and the 2011 blockade that lasted over 120 days. In contrast, he praised the Modi government’s efforts to transform the Northeast, citing peace accords, improved connectivity, and a significant drop in poverty rates in Manipur from 20% in 2013 to 5% in 2022.

Kharge, in his letter to President Murmu, criticized both the Union and state governments for failing to restore peace over the past 18 months. He noted that the violence has claimed over 300 lives and displaced nearly 100,000 people, forcing them into relief camps. Kharge urged immediate presidential intervention, emphasizing the human suffering caused by the crisis.

Both parties continue to trade barbs as tensions escalate in Manipur.