Ex-minister doubts capability of BJP government
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, September 02 2024: Expressing sorrow over the tragic death of a woman and injuries suffered by civilians and security personnel in the attack by armed Kuki militants at Koutruk village oh Sunday, former minister Ningthoujam Biren has questioned capability of the present government to contain the violence along with wondering whether no one among remaining MLAs are if fit to take over the mantle of chief ministership.

Addressing media persons at his Lamphel residence on Monday, Biren criticised the state government's handling of the ongoing crisis, asserting that it is incapable of restoring peace in the region.

He pointed out that whenever chief minister N Biren claims that Manipur is returning to peace, Kuki militants launch attacks on the Meetei community with Sunday's coordinated offensives in Koutruk, Sekmai and Phayeng area underscoring failure of the chief minister.

The former minister accused CM Biren of committing the greatest blunder of directing security forces to vacate village volunteers from Meetei villages, only for Kuki militants to intensify their attacks once the volunteers left.

He argued that if CM Biren is unable to administer effectively, he should consider stepping down.

Additionally, Biren questioned whether there is not a single suitable candidate among the 32 BJP MLAs who could take over the role of chief minister.

He expressed doubt that peace can be achieved under the current circumstances.

He also highlighted the dire conditions faced by many people living in relief camps, where they remain with little hope of returning to their homes and noted that while the central government has allocated funds for the displaced individuals, there are concerns about the judicious management of these funds by the state government.

Biren urged the authorities to ensure that the funds are utilised appropriately and effectively.

The former minister also voiced frustration over the government's handling of combing operations and criticise focus on confiscating arms in the valley areas while failing to assert governance in the hills, where no weapons have been seized apart from country-made firearms.

While calling for ceasing such indifferent approach, he also questioned why the rally organised recently in the hill districts was allowed as similar agitation in the valley were prevented using might of security forces.

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