National

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi meets victims of ethnic violence in Manipur's relief camps

• By IANS , Imphal
• Jun 30, 2023
• 212

Following a confrontation with a sizable contingent of Manipur Police, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi made a visit on Friday to relief camps in Moirang, Bishnupur district, where he met with individuals affected by recent ethnic violence.

Accompanied by Manipur state Congress President Keisham Meghachandra Singh, Rahul arrived in Moirang via helicopter and is scheduled to hold meetings with ten like-minded party leaders, members of civil society organizations, leaders of the United Naga Council (UNC), influential women's bodies, prominent citizens, and intellectuals upon his return to Imphal.

Yesterday, the senior Congress leader arrived in Imphal West District and Churachandpur, where he visited relief camps housing displaced individuals who have sought shelter following the outbreak of violence on May 3.

The violence has claimed the lives of 120 people, injured over 400 others, and caused extensive damage to properties, houses, vehicles, and important installations.

Manipur state Congress President Keisham Meghachandra Singh stated that during his visits to both districts, Rahul Gandhi attentively listened to the challenges faced by the affected people. He also shared a meal with the residents at the relief camp in Imphal.

However, when Rahul Gandhi embarked on his journey to Bishnupur by road on Thursday, his convoy was halted approximately 20 kilometers from Imphal by a large police contingent led by Bishnupur SP Heisnam Balram Singh, citing concerns related to law and order.

Tear gas shells were employed by the police to disperse the women-led demonstrators who were demanding Rahul Gandhi's visit to the violence-affected communities.

Rahul Gandhi expressed his disappointment through a tweet, stating, "I came to listen to all my brothers and sisters of Manipur. People of all communities are very welcoming and loving. It's very unfortunate that the government is stopping me. Manipur needs healing. Peace has to be our only priority."

Prominent Congress leaders, including Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, strongly criticized the actions of the Manipur Police, alleging that they were acting under the orders of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh to prevent Rahul Gandhi from visiting Bishnupur district. (Edited)