In a heartfelt speech in Imphal, Union Home Minister Amit Shah asserted Manipur’s unity is non-negotiable, amidst concerns of demographic changes through infiltration. Shah framed the upcoming Lok Sabha election as a battle between those striving to fracture Manipur and those steadfast in preserving its unity.
“We stand firm: Manipur will not fracture. No matter how hard anyone tries, we will not let anyone divide Manipur,” Shah declared with resounding assurance, emphasising the government’s commitment to bring peace while respecting the State’s diverse communities and maintaining its territorial integrity.
Accentuating the government’s efforts, Shah stated about the importance of the Inner Line Permit or ILP in safeguarding Manipur’s unity. “Our Chief Minister Biren Singh, though perhaps not vocal about it, has made a crucial plea to PM Narendra Modi: Manipur’s unity hinges on the ILP,” Shah revealed, attributing the BJP government’s measures to strengthen Manipur’s stability to the enforcement of the ILP. He further stated, “We are committed to safeguarding our State’s interests. The Inner Line Permit remains a vital tool in preserving our identity and security. With ILP, we ensure that our land remains protected while welcoming visitors who respect our heritage.”
As many as 219 people were killed after ethnic clashes broke out in Manipur on May 3 last year between people of Kuki and Meitei community when the former protested against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe status.
“Destiny of country will change when that of northeast and Manipur will change,” stated Shah during the rally. Last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi in an interview with The Assam Tribune had said there is a ‘marked improvement’ in the situation in Manipur.
“I have already spoken about this in Parliament. We have dedicated our best resources and administrative machinery to resolving the conflict. Because of the timely intervention of the government of India and efforts by the Manipur government, there has been a marked improvement in the situation of the State,” remarked the PM.
Last year, PM Modi while addressing Parliament had expressed his commitment to addressing the suffering of the people of Manipur.
“I want to assure the people of Manipur that Bharat is with you. Parliament is with you. We will together find a solution to this challenge,” he had said.
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