Prof Bimol suspects political motives in Manipur crisis
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, April 06 2024:
Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, a professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, and the Congress Lok Sabha candidate for the Inner Manipur Parliamentary Constituency, voiced his concerns over the handling of the conflict in the state.
Akoijam, known for his specialisation in social and political psychology with focus on identity politics and conflict, expressed suspicion regarding the political motivations behind the Centre's response to the crisis.
In a recent candid conversation with Deccan Herald, Prof Bimol, who has been vocal about the crisis in Manipur, criticised the Government of India for its alleged inaction during the 11-month-long conflict, describing it as a civil war situation resulting in complete statelessness.
He suggested that the Indian state deliberately allowed the crisis to unfold, leading to loss of innocent lives, displacement of people, and widespread destruction.
He emphasised that the situation in Manipur, exacerbated by political neglect, has reduced the state to a failed state status.
As reported by Deccan Herald, the academician-turned-politician questioned the absence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the crisis, highlighting instances where the PM had intervened promptly in other national emergencies.
He accused the Centre of turning a blind eye to Manipur's plight and urged voters to stand up for themselves in the face of neglect from the central government.
Addressing voters, Prof Bimol refrained from making promises but emphasised his desire to voice their concerns inside the Parliament, believing that his role as an MP would have a greater impact in addressing the issues faced by Manipur.
He called upon voters to recognise the gravity of the current crisis and to support candidates who prioritise the state's welfare.
Responding to queries about the demands of various communities in Manipur, Prof Bimol discussed the suspicions regarding illegal immigration and the need for a mechanism to distinguish between citizens and non-citizens.
He acknowledged the Meeteis' demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, citing longstanding insecurities and beliefs among the community.
However, he criticised the state government for creating confusion and politicising the issue.
Regarding the demand for a separate administration for the Kuki hills, Prof Bimol condemned the idea as regressive and divisive, warning against the ethnicisation of governance.
He advocated for decentralisation and empowerment of local governments as a more viable solution to address the concerns of affected communities.