The Congress on Tuesday accused the BJP-led central government of handling the situation in Manipur irresponsibly over the past five years, alleging that its approach has severely impacted the state’s security and economy. The party said the prolonged instability in the northeastern state reflects serious failures in governance at the Centre.
The allegations were made by AICC in-charge of Manipur, Christopher Tilak, who is currently visiting the violence-hit state to take part in the Congress’s MGNREGA Bachao Sangram campaign. Tilak expressed concern over the deteriorating economic and security situation, including border security, in Manipur.
“What has happened in Manipur is very unfortunate. Over the last five years, the Centre has handled the state irresponsibly. The economy is in deep trouble, and security, including border security, has also become a major concern,” he said.
Ethnic violence and President’s Rule
Manipur has been witnessing intense ethnic violence since May 2023, following clashes between the valley-based Meitei community and the Kuki communities of the hills. According to official estimates, at least 260 people have been killed and thousands rendered homeless during the prolonged unrest.
The state has been under President’s Rule since February 2025, imposed days after BJP leader N Biren Singh resigned as chief minister. Singh had first taken office in 2017 and was re-elected after the 2022 Assembly elections. Tilak alleged that the imposition of President’s Rule has failed to restore normalcy, claiming that underground groups had enforced a bandh during his earlier visit to the state.
“This clearly shows that the Centre is not serious about resolving Manipur’s crisis,” he said.
‘MGNREGA Bachao Sangram’ campaign
The Congress leader said that during his week-long stay in Manipur, he will travel across both hill and valley areas as part of the MGNREGA Bachao Sangram campaign, interacting with local residents and party workers.
The Congress had announced the nationwide campaign on January 3, scheduling it from January 10 to February 25. Through the movement, the party is demanding the withdrawal of the VB G-RAM-G Act, restoration of MGNREGA as a rights-based law, assurance of the right to work, and the restoration of powers to panchayats.