Dr Bimol calls for self-respect in LS polls
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, March 24 2024:
In a stirring address at the Imphal International Airport, Dr Bimol Akoijam, Congress' nominee for the inner Manipur parliamentary constituency in the upcoming 18th Lok Sabha Election, expressed his commitment to revitalising the state's historical unity and coherence.
Dr Bimol, known for his academic prowess and community engagement, emphasised the urgent need for a reinvigorated vision to steer Manipur towards a brighter future.
He lamented on seeing the erosion of the state's cultural heritage with millennia of civilizational history and the emergence of barriers within the society while referring to symbolic divides like Kanglatongbi and Phougakchao Ikhai, beyond which the people in the valley could not cross over.
He stressed the need for reversing this trend and embark on a journey to forge a renewed Manipur.
Addressing the citizens, Dr Bimol urged them to perceive the upcoming election not merely as a democratic exercise but as a pivotal opportunity to rejuvenate the state.
He emphasised on integrity in the electoral process, and vehemently denounced the practice of vote-buying while emphasising the importance of self-respect in shaping the state's future.
"We must uphold our dignity and refuse to engage in unethical practices.
Manipur's welfare hinges on the choices we make during elections," Dr Bimol asserted.
Expressing concern over the governance under the BJP administration, Dr Bimol highlighted issues besieging Manipur, which prompted his alignment with the Congress party.
He cited the Congress' organisational framework and ideological resonance as decisive factors in his choice, while adding that Congress is the only formidable opposition that could stand against BJP.
Reflecting on his transition from academic discourse to electoral politics, Dr Bimol stated that the government's failure to address pressing issues compelled him to take a more proactive role in effecting change as a people's representative.
Upon his arrival at the Imphal Airport, Dr Bimol was accorded warm welcome by his well-wishers and supporters.
Large number of people greeted him holding the Seven Clans flag along Tiddim Road and raising slogans in support of him.
He first visited his home and then Lainingthou Sanamahi Temple where he sought blessings.
He also visited the historic Kangla, where, accompanied by his wife, sought divine guidance for his electoral journey.
Subsequently, Dr Bimol participated in a Congress party meeting at Congress Bhawan, engaged in political discourse alongside party leaders such as former chief minister Okram Ibobi and candidate for the outer Manipur Parliamentary Constituency, Kangngam Alfred Arthur.
The gathering underscored the party's unity and resolve in charting a path towards the state's renewal.