In response to the contentious welcoming of Rahul Gandhi at Kangpokpi district with a ‘Kukiland’ poster during his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, the Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) on Wednesday clarified that the poster in question was not related to the Congress party.
Addressing a press conference at Congress Bhawan in Imphal, president of MPCC K Meghachandra emphasised the party’s commitment to the integrity of Manipur, stating that the Congress party does not endorse any posters that go against the state’s unity.
He explained that the yatra was solely focused on promoting unity and integrity to combat social, political and economic injustice, with the overarching goal of safeguarding Manipur.
When questioned about the participation of Congress candidate Lamtinthang Haokip, known for advocating a separate administration in Manipur, Meghachandra claimed to be unaware of his personal activities.
However, he assured that disciplinary action would be taken against party members who act against the integrity of Manipur.
Reacting to Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s criticism of the yatra as a “Bharat Todo Yatra,” the president deemed such statements from a chief minister as “very irresponsible.”
He maintained that the yatra, rooted in unity and peace, achieved grand success in Manipur (Khongjom to Mao) with overwhelming support from the people, emphasising that the chief minister should recognise the people’s desire for peace and justice.
In light of repeated attacks by Kuki militants on security forces in Moreh and Meetei inhabited areas, Meghachandra expressed concern over the deteriorating law-and-order situation.
He asserted that this indicated a failure on the part of the state government’s responsibility.
Regarding the silence of central forces during the Kuki militants’ attacks, Meghachandra stated that the Congress party had consistently appealed to the government, but no positive response had been received. He held the government solely responsible for the prevailing situation in Manipur.
CLP leader O Ibobi extended gratitude to the people of Manipur for making the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra a resounding success, citing it as proof that the people of Manipur still believe in the Congress party.
