PM’s silence on Ratan Thiyam’s demise draws sharp criticism from Congress

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has come under fire from the Congress party for his continued silence over the demise of globally acclaimed theatre maestro Ratan Thiyam, a towering figure in Indian art and culture, who passed away recently in Imphal.
Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, in a strongly worded post on social media platform ‘X’, criticised the Prime Minister for failing to extend even a basic condolence message, calling it “another instance of his insensitivity” and “an insult to the people of Manipur.”
“Since May 3rd, 2023, when Manipur erupted and the extreme distress, pain, and agony of the people there began, the Prime Minister has not found the time nor has he shown any inclination to visit the state. For the past 26 months, he has also totally avoided meeting political leaders and civil society organisations of Manipur,” Ramesh wrote.
Referring to the passing of Ratan Thiyam, he added, “Ratan Thiyam, one of India’s greatest cultural personalities whose contributions have been recognised all over the world, has just passed away in Imphal. All of Manipur has saluted him. Sadly, the PM does not find it appropriate to extend his condolences even through a post on X.”
Ramesh’s remarks have struck a chord with many in Manipur, where the death of Ratan Thiyam has plunged the artistic community and public at large into mourning. Thiyam, a recipient of numerous national and international accolades including the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and the Padma Shri, was not just a cultural icon of the Northeast but a revered voice in Indian theatre known for blending tradition with contemporary relevance.
Political observers say that the Prime Minister’s absence — both physically from the state and now digitally from a moment of collective grief — risks being perceived as disregard for Manipur’s cultural and emotional landscape.
The state government and numerous civil society organisations had paid homage to Thiyam’s legacy, with tributes pouring in from across the country and abroad. Yet, the conspicuous absence of any message from the highest office in the country has invited growing scrutiny.