A Visit That Sparks Controversy
The announcement of the Prime Minister’s upcoming visit to Manipur has triggered sharp criticism from the Congress party. Senior leader Jairam Ramesh described the trip as a “non-visit” after reports suggested it would last only three hours. He argued that such a brief stop in a state torn apart by ethnic conflict is not only inadequate but also disrespectful to its people.
Months of Waiting for Minutes of Attention
Manipur has endured more than two years of unrest since violent clashes broke out in May 2023. Communities remain divided, thousands continue to live in relief camps, and families still mourn the lives lost. Against this painful backdrop, Ramesh said the people of Manipur have waited nearly 29 months for leadership from the highest office, only to be offered a hurried three-hour appearance.
Why Jairam Calls It a “Non-Visit”
In his statement, Jairam Ramesh explained that the visit would be symbolic at best and empty at worst. He questioned how the Prime Minister could meaningfully engage with displaced families, community leaders, and civil society in such a short period. Without time for real conversations or an opportunity to understand ground realities, Ramesh argued that the trip cannot even be considered a visit.
A State Still in Crisis
The situation in Manipur remains tense and fragile. More than 250 people have died since the violence began, and tens of thousands have been displaced from their homes. Relief camps remain crowded with families who have lost everything, and deep mistrust continues to divide communities. With so much still unresolved, critics say a fleeting stopover does little to acknowledge the scale of the crisis.
Silence from the Centre
This is not the first time the Congress party has raised concerns over the central government’s handling of the Manipur conflict. Ramesh has previously accused the leadership of ignoring the suffering of the people and avoiding meaningful engagement with the state. For him, the lack of extended presence or serious dialogue shows indifference to the struggles of citizens who continue to live in fear and uncertainty.
Too Little Too Late
The timing of the Prime Minister’s visit is another point of contention. After nearly two and a half years of unrest, the arrival of the country’s leader should ideally mark a turning point. Yet Ramesh warned that a short appearance risks being seen as an afterthought rather than a sincere attempt to help. According to him, Manipur’s citizens need empathy, accountability, and solutions, not ceremonial gestures.
What the People Expect
Beyond political statements, the people of Manipur hope for reassurance that their voices matter. They want to be heard, they want their suffering to be recognized, and they want genuine steps taken toward peace and rehabilitation. For families still in camps or struggling to rebuild their lives, a meaningful presence from national leadership would carry far more weight than a brief official stop.
A Demand for Accountability
Jairam Ramesh’s criticism highlights more than political rivalry. It is also a call for accountability and compassion from those in power. He stressed that Manipur deserves more than optics. What is needed is a serious plan, an honest commitment to healing divisions, and the courage to engage with people directly. Until then, he believes, a three-hour visit cannot match the depth of suffering the state has endured.
The Congress leader urged the Prime Minister and the government to shift from symbolism to substance. He said what Manipur needs is not fleeting visits but a long-term roadmap that restores peace, rebuilds lives, and addresses the roots of division. Only then, he argued, can the scars of the past be healed and the state move forward with hope.
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