August 9, 2023
Introduction
In a fiery session of the Indian Parliament, Rahul Gandhi, a senior leader of the main opposition Congress party, launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s approach to the ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur. Gandhi accused the Modi government of damaging the region through divisive policies that have resulted in violence, death, and displacement.
Gandhi’s speech marked his first appearance in Parliament since being reinstated as a lawmaker. He berated the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for its handling of the crisis, stating that Modi’s government had effectively “divided it, broken it, and burnt it.” His words were met with both applause from opposition lawmakers and booing from government counterparts.
Manipur Ethnic Violence
The conflict in Manipur has claimed the lives of over 180 people and left many more injured and homeless since May. Despite the escalating crisis, Prime Minister Modi remained silent on the issue until last month. The state of Manipur is under the control of Modi’s own Hindu nationalist party.
Gandhi accused Modi of ignoring the plight of the region and criticized the lack of response from the Indian army, which he claimed could bring peace to Manipur in a single day. He alleged that the government’s inaction was contributing to the suffering of the people.
The violence in Manipur erupted over disagreements regarding the extension of special benefits to the Hindu ethnic majority Meiteis, which had been previously reserved for minority Christian Kuki tribals. The BJP state government has denied allegations that it failed to address the conflict effectively.
Rahul Gandhi talks about his Manipur Visit
During his speech, Gandhi also highlighted his visit to Manipur in June, contrasting his actions with those of the prime minister. He claimed that Modi had not visited the state and insinuated that Manipur was being neglected by the central government.
The ongoing debate in Parliament includes a vote of no confidence against Modi’s government. However, it is unlikely to impact the stability or popularity of the government, which holds a strong majority and is anticipated to secure a third term in the upcoming general elections.
As the debate continues, international concern is growing over the situation in Manipur. The United States and the European Parliament have expressed worries about the violence. Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to address Parliament on Thursday, where he is expected to respond to the accusations made by Rahul Gandhi and defend his government’s actions.
The Manipur conflict also takes place just ahead of the annual G20 summit hosted by India in New Delhi, where Modi aims to showcase the nation’s leadership within the Global South. The criticism by Gandhi adds to the challenges that Modi’s government faces on both domestic and international fronts.
Conclusion
While the no-confidence vote may not sway the current political landscape, the sharp criticism from opposition leader Rahul Gandhi sheds light on the ongoing issues in Manipur and raises questions about the government’s handling of the crisis.
