IT News
Imphal, Nov 18:
Five Congress MLAs in Manipur are reportedly prepared to resign from their positions, citing the state government’s failure to address the ongoing unrest and protect its people. Former Chief Minister and Congress Legislative Party (CLP) leader Okram Ibobi announced this development via phone to residents gathered at his residence in Thoubal Athokpam yesterday evening, as both he and his son, O. Surjakumar, MLA for Khangabok, were not present at their home.
Addressing the people of his Thoubal and Khangabok constituencies, O. Ibobi stated that the resignation move is being considered a last resort to pressure both the state and central governments into taking decisive action to resolve the escalating crisis in Manipur. He emphasized the Congress party’s commitment to standing by the people during these turbulent times.
The announcement follows rising public anger over the May 2023 violence and subsequent months of ethnic tension, displacement, and loss of lives. Protesters have repeatedly expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of law and order, particularly after the recent killings of six civilians, including children, in Borobekra.
During the meeting, Ibobi remarked, “The inability of the government to address the root causes of the crisis, coupled with its failure to protect lives and property, has left no choice but to take such a drastic step.” He reiterated that both the central and state administrations have completely failed to maintain law and order.
The opposition MLAs have reportedly called for an urgent meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to convey the gravity of the situation. However, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has been unable to secure an appointment with the Prime Minister, who is frequently abroad on foreign tours.
Khangabok MLA O. Surjakumar, who also addressed the public, stated that the opposition is united in its stand against the government’s failures. He added that Congress MLAs are prepared to resign en masse if meaningful solutions are not provided soon.
