GUWAHATI, Nov 18: Ahead of a crucial review meeting convened by Union Home Minister Amit Shah to assess the tense situation in Manipur, Deputy Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Gaurav Gogoi, expressed skepticism regarding the potential outcomes of the discussions. In a video message shared on social media, Gogoi criticized the central government for its perceived inaction and “step-motherly” treatment of the northeastern state, emphasizing that repeated review meetings have resulted in little to no improvement in law and order.
Gogoi asserted, “Despite numerous meetings held by the Union Home Minister, there has been a failure to deliver tangible results. Today’s meeting is unlikely to yield any conclusive outcomes.” He accused the central authorities of underestimating the grave nature of the ongoing conflict in Manipur, suggesting that officials view the state as insignificant and trivialize the situation as merely a local dispute between communities.
The Jorhat MP highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s alleged indecisiveness in addressing the violence that has persisted for over a year, questioning the Prime Minister’s absence from the situation while prioritizing foreign engagements. He remarked, “With this attitude, peace will not return to Manipur. The focus must be on restoring harmony and preserving lives in the state.”
In response to the escalating crisis, Amit Shah has reportedly canceled his rallies in poll-bound Maharashtra to return to New Delhi for the emergency meeting. This meeting comes after a directive from the Ministry of Home Affairs on November 16, which mandated all security agencies in Manipur to take necessary measures to stabilize the region, particularly following recent attacks on relief camps and a CRPF camp in the Jiribam district by armed militants.
As the situation remains “fragile,” today’s review meeting with top officials is expected to address these pressing concerns and outline strategies to restore peace and order in Manipur.
