Manipur Congress slams BJP ‘double engine’ govt over rising IDP crisis

Imphal: Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) president Keisham Meghachandra on Monday accused the BJP-led “double engine government” of failing to restore normalcy in the state as protests across valley districts intensify ahead of the Sangai Festival.

Addressing reporters at Congress Bhawan, Meghachandra highlighted that the increasing demonstrations by internally displaced persons (IDPs) and civil society groups reflect the government’s inability to resolve the ongoing crisis or provide security to affected communities.

He criticised both the state and central governments, noting that their assurances to resettle IDPs in a phased manner by December have not been fulfilled.

"The government is not serious about ending the conflict. Their promises of rehabilitation have failed, forcing thousands of IDPs to continue living in relief camps,” Meghachandra said.

Protests have surged in various valley regions in recent days, with IDPs demanding peace restoration before the state hosts the Sangai Festival.

On Monday, a large group of IDPs from relief camps in Imphal East tried to return to their native villages, but security forces intercepted them at Dolaithabi. The brief confrontation left at least four displaced persons injured.

The MPCC emphasised that organising a tourism festival while humanitarian and security issues remain unresolved sends the wrong signal.

Meghachandra urged the government to prioritise dialogue, rehabilitation, and the safety of displaced communities before proceeding with festival celebrations.