On Saturday, a delegation comprising twenty opposition leaders is slated to undertake a crucial visit to the violence-stricken state of Manipur. The primary objective of the visit is to closely assess the ground situation and subsequently present recommendations to both the government and Parliament, aimed at finding effective solutions to the prevailing issues in the state. The delegation is a diverse representation of leaders hailing from various political parties, including Congress, TMC, JMM, DMK, NCP, RLD, RJD, RSP, VCK, JD(U), CPI, CPI(M), Samajwadi Party, IUML, AAP, Shiv Sena-Uddhav Thackeray, and Phulo Devi Netam from Congress.
Before embarking on this significant journey, Gaurav Gogoi, Congress’ deputy leader in Lok Sabha, has vocally called for a thorough investigation into the violence in Manipur, with the involvement of a retired Supreme Court judge. Expressing deep concern over the persisting violence, he has raised questions regarding the state government’s response to the crisis and the apparent easy access to weapons in the region. The opposition delegation is determined to delve into the matter personally, seeking to understand the true extent of damage caused and the devastating loss of lives and property, while also intending to visit the relief camps where the victims are striving to rebuild their lives.
It is essential to note that the opposition leaders had been persistently requesting permission for their leaders to visit Manipur, and now, with the visit finally scheduled, they aim to gain first-hand insights into the situation and proffer pragmatic solutions and recommendations to tackle the challenges at hand. The state of Manipur has been grappling with ethnic violence since May 3, resulting in the heartbreaking loss of over 160 lives. This visit by the opposition delegation is an expression of their solidarity with the people of Manipur, as well as their sincere commitment to finding viable avenues for restoring peace and normalcy in the region.
The opposition’s demand for a statement from the prime minister in Parliament concerning the situation in Manipur, coupled with a comprehensive discussion on the matter, underscores the seriousness and urgency with which they are approaching this critical issue. The delegation’s efforts are geared towards addressing the root causes of the violence and advocating for tangible actions to safeguard the lives and well-being of the people of Manipur. As the delegation embarks on its journey, it carries the weight of responsibility to champion the cause of peace and reconciliation in the region, striving to pave the way for a brighter and safer future for the citizens of Manipur.