Mumbai, Sept 27:   Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi expressed frustration on Thursday over Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s focus on global diplomacy, particularly mediating between Russia and Ukraine, while neglecting the ongoing unrest in Manipur. 

Speaking at the India Today Mumbai Conclave, Gogoi questioned why Modi isn’t putting the same effort into resolving the ethnic violence in the northeastern state that has been ongoing since May of last year.

“A hands-on approach is required from the Prime Minister to address the ethnic conflict in Manipur,” said Gogoi. He pointed out that while PM Modi is actively engaging with global leaders like US President Joe Biden, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, he has not made similar efforts to resolve the tensions between the Meiteis and Kukis in Manipur.

Gogoi went on to criticize Modi for traveling the world to broker peace abroad, yet failing to visit Manipur to address the ethnic violence. Reflecting on the situation in the region, he added, “It breaks my heart that in the northeast, we’ve created an environment where people can’t live together and there’s visceral hatred.”

Gogoi urged the Prime Minister to personally take charge of the situation, arguing that fostering peace in Manipur cannot be delegated to the Union Home Minister or a National Security Advisor. “The Prime Minister needs to act as a healer, statesman, and bridger,” he said, stressing that this would be appreciated by the people of the northeast. “I believe the people of the northeast would thank him if he brings about peace and helps reconcile the Meiteis and Kukis.”

Gogoi also emphasized the strategic importance of the northeast for India’s national security, noting that events in neighboring countries like Bangladesh and Myanmar directly affect the region. “The northeast is crucial not just for our unity and integrity, but also for national security,” he said. He called for more focus on India’s foreign policies regarding neighboring countries such as Bhutan, Nepal, and Myanmar, in addition to Modi’s global diplomatic efforts.

Discussing the growing political polarisation in India, Gogoi warned that failure to address critical issues could lead to significant political consequences, similar to what occurred in Sri Lanka. “If Congress, BJP, and other major political parties continue fighting without finding solutions, the people will punish us,” he cautioned.