The Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) today observed the 156th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi at Congress Bhavan, BT Road, Imphal. The programme also marked the 121st birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri.
Speaking on the occasion, former Chief Minister and Congress leader Okram Ibobi Singh recalled Mahatma Gandhi’s immense contribution to India’s freedom struggle and his philosophy of non-violence. “Mahatma Gandhi firmly believed in non-violence, which defeated the mighty British and freed India. His ideology remains relevant even today, especially when the world is gripped by the fear of another global conflict,” he said, noting that Gandhi’s principle of ahimsa continues to inspire world leaders.
Ibobi Singh criticised the BJP-led government in Manipur, accusing it of failing to uphold constitutional sanctity and democratic principles. He pointed to the failure to conduct elections for local bodies even after their terms expired, saying, “Instead of holding elections, the government appointed caretakers.” He further reminded that the Manipur High Court has directed the state government to hold local body polls within six months.
“The Congress hopes the government abides by the court’s order and conducts elections at the earliest, which will help bring development to rural areas,” he added.