The present system of the government appears to be in a disarray, as state authorities seem to be uncertain about whether Article 355 has been promulgated or not, stated CWC member Gaikhangam on Monday.
He made these remarks while attending the observance of the 154th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and the 119th Birth Anniversary of Lal Bahadur Shastri at the Congress Bhawan in Imphal.
Gaikhangam questioned the government’s failure to provide clear information to the public regarding the imposition of Article 355. Expressing his concerns, he said, “The present government has utterly failed the people of Manipur. Indeed, Manipur seems to have become a state without effective governance.”
ALSO READ: Article 355 as a shield
He emphasised that the ongoing violence in Manipur could be swiftly controlled by the mighty Indian forces in just a week’s time.
However, the prolonged unrest, persisting for over four months, indicates that the government is neglecting its duty to restore peace in Manipur, he maintained.
Highlighting the reluctance of the central government, including the Prime Minister and the Home Minister to meet with the state’s representatives, Gaikhangam commented that it appears as though Manipur is not considered a part of India to them.
He called upon the state government to take the lead in peace efforts through dialogue, aiming for a logical and lasting solution.
ALSO READ: Manipur Unrest: Of Curfews and Internet Ban
Gaikhangam also stated that the Congress party has consistently been committed to peace restoration and is ready to support any peace initiatives undertaken by the government.
Emphasising the current distressing situation in Manipur, marked by the sounds of cries and a prevailing sense of insecurity, Gaikhangam noted that this starkly contradicts Mahatma Gandhi’s vision for India.
He further called for peace and harmony in Manipur, urging adherence to the principles of non-violence and truth, which were followed by Gandhi and led to the successful defeat of the mighty British imperialists.