MIYC calls Govt formation bid 'deceptive'
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, May 28 2025:
The Manipur International Youth Centre (MIYC) has issued a scathing denunciation of a meeting held on Wednesday between 10 MLAs, including members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Independents, and the Governor of Manipur.
The gathering, apparently held to discuss the formation of a popular government, has been described by the MIYC as a "sham" and a "disgraceful charade" intended to deceive the people of Manipur.
Recounting that the state has been under President's Rule since February 13, 2025, following the resignation of former chief minister N Biren Singh amidst ethnic unrest and political instability, the MIYC criticised the continuing lack of decisive leadership, stating that the central administration has failed to restore normalcy or address the core issues affecting the state.
"Today's meeting is a cowardly display of political theatre," said the MIYC in a press release issued on Wednesday.
"Rather than assertively demanding the restoration of democratic governance, the MLAs have chosen to engage in empty gestures aimed at pacifying public outrage".
The condemnation follows widespread public discontent after an incident on May 20, in which the 4th Mahar Regiment, reportedly with the support of the Border Security Force, instructed journalists en route to the Shirui Lily Festival in Ukhrul to remove the word "Manipur" from a state transport bus at Gwaltabi.
The MIYC described the incident as a "deliberate assault" on the identity of the Manipuri people and accused authorities of failing to respond with the seriousness the issue demanded.
In its statement, the MIYC questioned the intent behind Wednesday's meeting, pointing out that the MLAs failed to formally stake a claim to form a government.
"This inaction reveals a deeper crisis of leadership," it said.
"The people's call for an end to President's Rule has been clear and consistent.
These MLAs have neither the courage nor the conviction to act in the public interest" .
The organisation held the BJP particularly responsible, stating that as the majority party in the suspended Assembly, it bears the "lion's share" of the blame for the political paralysis.
The MIYC also criticised the lone Independent and National People's Party (NPP) members involved, accusing them of prioritising political survival over the public good.
"This is not leadership; it is betrayal," the MIYC asserted.
"The silence on the Gwaltabi incident and the refusal to confront the real issues is nothing short of an abdication of responsibility".
The youth organisation concluded with a stern warning: unless swift and meaningful steps are taken to restore a people-led government, Manipur may witness a growing movement to reject national political parties altogether.
"We will no longer tolerate those who sell our pride for personal gain," the statement declared.
"The people of Manipur are vigilant and prepared to hold their leaders accountable it added.
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