Kharge emphasized that the BJP's indifference to the escalating situation was part of a broader strategy to further polarize the region, which could fuel political gains for the ruling party. According to the Congress leader, the government's failure to intervene decisively has allowed the violence to spiral out of control, leaving vulnerable populations at the mercy of armed groups. His comments are in line with growing criticisms of the central government's role in managing the conflict and ensuring security for affected citizens.
The violence in Manipur began in May 2023, ignited by a dispute over the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe status. This move, according to the Meiteis, would grant them greater access to affirmative action benefits such as government jobs and educational quotas. However, the Kuki community, which primarily practices Christianity, fears that granting the Meiteis ST status would erode their own privileged position, further exacerbating their marginalization in the state. The tensions escalated when violent confrontations broke out between the two groups, leading to widespread bloodshed.
Despite appeals from various political and civil society groups, the state government, led by Chief Minister N. Biren Singh of the BJP, has been criticized for its inadequate response to the violence. Many allege that the government has been slow to act, with accusations of political bias in its handling of the ethnic strife. The BJP, however, maintains that it has taken necessary measures to restore order, citing the deployment of additional security forces and the imposition of curfews.
Opposition leaders, including Kharge, have criticized the government's response as insufficient and piecemeal. They argue that the administration’s reluctance to engage in meaningful dialogue with the affected communities and its failure to address the root causes of the unrest have contributed to the persistence of violence. Kharge has called for the resignation of the Manipur Chief Minister, citing his inability to bring the situation under control.
Political observers note that Manipur’s crisis has become a significant point of contention ahead of the 2024 general elections. The BJP, which has maintained a strong hold on power in the state, faces increasing pressure from the opposition to address the humanitarian disaster and restore peace. Opposition parties have used the situation as a rallying cry, accusing the BJP of prioritizing its political interests over the welfare of the people.
Kharge’s statement also comes in the wake of mounting scrutiny of the central government's role in the region. The opposition has pointed to the lack of effective coordination between the state and central security forces, with accusations that the Union government has failed to take adequate steps to end the violence. Critics also claim that the BJP has not been transparent about the situation, withholding critical information about the scale of the conflict and the number of casualties.
In an effort to placate growing dissent, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the issue in a public speech, urging the people of Manipur to maintain peace and harmony. Modi’s statement, however, was seen by some as a generic call for calm without offering a concrete solution to the crisis. Opposition leaders have raised doubts about the sincerity of the government’s response, questioning whether Modi's remarks are merely an attempt to deflect criticism without taking substantial action on the ground.
Human rights organizations have expressed grave concern over the deteriorating situation in Manipur, warning that ethnic violence could lead to further destabilization in the region. Reports from the ground indicate that thousands of people have been forced to flee their homes, with many seeking refuge in temporary camps. The situation has strained local resources, and relief efforts have been hampered by logistical challenges, as well as ongoing security threats.
Amidst the turmoil, several civil society groups and activists have called for an independent inquiry into the causes of the violence, as well as the government’s response. They argue that a thorough investigation is necessary to ensure accountability and provide justice for victims. These calls for transparency have been echoed by political leaders, who have demanded a full-fledged parliamentary debate on the issue.