Guwahati: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi concluded his two-day tour of troubled Manipur, emphasizing the need for peace and healing amidst the ongoing violence. Reflecting on the situation, Rahul described the violence as a “horrible tragedy” that demands urgent attention. During his visit, Rahul faced a dramatic incident when his convoy was stopped by the police on its way to Churachandpur, compelling him to take a helicopter ride instead. However, upon leaving Raj Bhavan after meeting with Governor Anusuiya Uikey, Rahul refrained from making any political statements.
Meanwhile, supporters of Chief Minister N Biren Singh gathered near his residence, in close proximity to Raj Bhavan, amid speculation about his possible resignation. In light of these events, Rahul expressed his purpose in coming to Manipur, stating that he wanted to share the pain experienced by the people. He expressed deep sorrow for both the people of Manipur and India as a whole, emphasizing the distress caused by the violence since May 3. Over the course of his two-day visit, Rahul visited relief camps in Churachandpur, Imphal, and Moirang, allowing him to engage with displaced individuals from various communities affected by the violence.
Addressing the government’s role, Rahul called for improvements in basic amenities, such as food and medicine supply, at the camps. He cited complaints received from the camps and urged the authorities to address these pressing issues. Rahul’s advice to the people of Manipur centered on embracing peace as the only way forward. He pledged his support in bringing peace to the state, stating his readiness to contribute in any way possible.
When asked about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s absence from the state since the onset of the ethnic conflict, Rahul declined to comment, expressing his sole focus on the swift restoration of peace. Accompanied by former Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh, Rahul paid tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose at the INA Martyrs’ complex in Moirang, Bishnupur, before visiting two relief camps. His visit aimed to offer condolences, understand the suffering of the affected communities, and demonstrate solidarity in the pursuit of peace.