IT News
Imphal, April 2:
Maheshwar Thounaojam, the MP candidate from the Republican Party of India (Athawale), highlighted the pivotal role his party played in facilitating meetings with key national figures such as Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
Addressing the media at his residence, he emphasized how his party’s support was instrumental in countering negative narratives about the Meitei community perpetuated by other groups. Thounaojam stated, “Accessing national leaders wasn’t easy for me, but thanks to RPI, I had meaningful engagements. They organized crucial meetings in Delhi, including three with the Defence Minister, where RPI’s assistance countered misinformation.”
“The conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities persists, with many still residing in relief camps,” he added. He further mentioned that his party had supported his efforts to advocate for the removal of the Kuki community from the Scheduled Tribe list. Regarding his party’s stance within the NDA government, Maheshwar clarified that despite being an ally, the Republican Party of India (Athawale) remains independent.
He emphasized, “My party respects my voice and has never pressured me to silence my advocacy for our community. If they ever demanded that I act against our people’s interests, I would have parted ways with them long ago.”
“RPI has always supported me. Currently, our focus is on resolving the crisis in Manipur. While I could still strive for solutions independently, having RPI’s backing would undoubtedly expedite the process,” he remarked. Emphasizing the independence of the Republican Party of India (Athawale), he stated, “RPI has never imposed restrictions on me. My priority lies with serving the public, not adhering blindly to party directives or ideologies that contradict public welfare.”He continued, “The conflict persists, with many still displaced and in need. Elections should be a platform for solutions, not further discord. I urge people to reject bribery and corruption, as Manipur’s citizens have valiantly defended our land for months. Now, we must unite against unjust electoral practices.”
Maheshwar Thounaojam’s decision to contest on the Republican Party of India (RPI) ticket has sparked criticism, given RPI’s alliance with the NDA government, where the BJP holds significant influence.
