IT News
Imphal, April 1:
Dr. Bimol Akoijam, the Congress MP Candidate for Inner Manipur Parliamentary Constituency in the upcoming 18th Lok Sabha Elections 2024, emphasized that voting for candidates who engage in cash-for-vote or use muscle power undermines the essence of celebrating Patriots’ Day and Khongjom Day, which honour the sacrifices of our forefathers. He urged people to see themselves as the descendants of those who made sacrifices during Manipur’s pivotal historical moments and advocated for free and fair elections as the way forward.
Regarding the ongoing communal violence in Manipur spanning over ten months, Dr. Bimol Akoijam shared insightful observations. He remarked, “Though we have a history of more than 2000 years, we are now in a situation when we cannot cross Kanglatongbi or Phougakchao ikhai.”
Recalling the tumultuous events of 2001, when Manipur faced a near-breakup leading to the loss of 18 lives, he contrasted the past with the present, noting, “In 2001, nobody stopped people from entering Dimapur, Moreh, and Churachandpur. Today it is not theory; we have seen it with our own eyes.”
Dr. Bimol emphasized that the current turmoil is not beyond control but criticized the government’s lack of initiative, stating, “In English, there are two words: inability and unwillingness. The Government is unwilling to control the situation, and I have spoken about this in many media and forums.” His words underscored the urgent need for proactive governmental measures to curb the escalating tensions and restore peace in Manipur.
Dr. Bimol Akoijam further elaborated on the dynamics of the crisis, stating, “Instead of controlling and reversing the crisis, polarization is occurring. The narrative now revolves around Kukis blaming the entire Meitei community and vice versa.”
He emphasized the need to avoid generalizing blame, saying, “We should not blame the entire Kuki community but rather their elites and their divisive politics. I have expressed this sentiment in my speech in Delhi. We must hold accountable the divisive politics that aims to fragment Manipur.”
While acknowledging that some members of the ruling government have recognized that not all Kukis are at fault, Dr. Bimol stressed the importance of steering away from divisive narratives. He emphasized, “To reverse the crisis, we must not endorse the divisive narrative but instead work towards fostering relations between the two communities.” This approach, he believes, is crucial for resolving the ongoing tensions and promoting harmony in Manipur.
The Congress candidate took the center stage, delivering an impassioned address at the grand reception ceremony arranged to warmly welcome the newly joined ex-MLAs and dedicated social workers into the folds of the Indian National Congress. Among the distinguished individuals who chose to align with the party’s vision and mission were Elangbam Chand Singh, who served as the MLA of Yaiskul A/C; Sagolsem Achouba Singh, the esteemed former candidate hailing from Wangoi A/C; Advocate Oinam Hemanta Singh, a stalwart from Oinam AC; and Thoudam Devadutta Singh, son of the esteemed former Minister Th. Devendra Singh, representing Jiribam A/C with pride and dedication.
