The Manipur Democratic Alliance (MDA) has extended its appreciation for the recent unification of civil society organisations (CSOs) in the state and urged political parties to follow suit by setting aside differences for the larger cause of safeguarding Manipur’s territorial integrity.
Speaking at a press conference held at the Shiv Sena Manipur unit office in Imphal, MDA Convenor M. Tombi underscored the need for unity among all sections of society, particularly during this critical phase. He emphasised that without the motherland, there would be no relevance for elections or political parties, and called upon political leaders to place the state’s interest above partisan politics.
Referring to the ongoing crisis, Tombi drew historical parallels with the colonial era, noting that the people of Manipur had once resisted foreign domination with unity and determination. He accused both the BJP and Congress of failing to address the core issues affecting the state, alleging that both parties were more focused on political gains than on finding a solution to the crisis.
Tombi also criticised the Congress for demanding the imposition of President’s Rule and later calling for the restoration of a popular government, terming it a contradictory and opportunistic approach that undermines democratic values.
Highlighting the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement signed in 2005 with Myanmar-based armed groups, Tombi alleged that the Congress was responsible for the current unrest due to its failure to foresee the consequences of that decision. He cautioned that peace cannot be achieved by appeasing armed groups and stressed that over-reliance on central forces would not resolve the crisis. Instead, he called for effective mobilisation of state forces to protect the land and restore stability.
The MDA Convenor further urged political parties in Manipur to rise above narrow interests and unite in their demand for the formation of a popular government that truly represents the aspirations of the people.