Oppn accuses CM Biren of failing to uphold state legacy
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, August 10 2024: The opposition has accused chief minister N Biren of failing to uphold the state's rich legacy, claiming that his leadership has led to a significant decline in Manipur's stature.

Deputy CLP leader K Ranjit, along with other opposition members, voiced these concerns after staging a walkout from the state assembly on Friday, criticising the government s handling of the ongoing crisis.

Speaking to the media after the walkout, MLA K Ranjit accused the government of failing to uphold the legacy of Manipur as an independent and powerful sovereign nation, a legacy protected and nurtured by generations of forefathers.

He cited historical figures such as King Gambhir Singh, who expanded Manipur's territory upto Burma (now Myanmar), and patriots like Bir Tikendrajit and Thangal General, who sacrificed their lives for the state.

Ranjit lamented that Manipur is now facing a significant downfall under CM Biren's tenure.

The opposition's discontent stemmed from the rejection of a private member resolution moved by the five opposition members in the House, seeking an appointment with the Prime Minister to discuss the ongoing crisis.

Ranjit expressed disappointment over the rejection, highlighting that past assembly sessions since May 3, 2023, were too short to adequately address the conflict.

In the current budget session, the opposition had proposed shortening budget discussions to allow time for a thorough debate on the conflict, but this proposal was dismissed.

Expressing his frustration, Ranjit stated that the government seems indifferent to the ongoing crisis.

He criticised CM Biren for claiming to have constant communication with the Prime Minister, home minister, and other central leaders, while his actions suggest otherwise.

He pointed out that home minister Amit Shah had previously addressed Parliament, attributing the conflict to illegal immigration.

But recently, the home minister described the situation as a conflict between Meetei and Kuki communities, with efforts underway to broker peace through negotiations.

Ranjit argued that the home minister's statements reflect the state government's failure to provide accurate information and effectively convince the central leadership about the true nature of the crisis.

He pointed out discrepancies in the state government 's narrative, particularly concerning the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement.

Despite the state cabinet's approval of the SoO agreement's dissolution, the CM recently stated that the SoO remains active, leading Ranjit to question the CM's commitment to the dignity of the state assembly.

Opposition leader O Ibobi also echoed the same concerns, and pointed out that no solution has been found to the crisis even after 15 months.

He accused the government of rejecting the proposal to meet with the Prime Minister to explore possible solutions, suggesting that the ruling party is unwilling to listen to alternative perspectives.

Ibobi also highlighted the public's dissatisfaction with the government, referencing the recent Lok Sabha election results as evidence of the public mandate against the current administration.

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