The People’s Progressive Alliance (PPA) Manipur, a coalition of 17 civil society organisations, has strongly criticised the elected Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) of Manipur for their apparent reluctance to form a popular government in the state. Addressing a press conference today, Thokchom Sujata, president of Imagi Meira, one of the member organisations of PPA, accused the MLAs of failing the people during a critical phase in the state’s governance.
Manipur has been under President’s Rule since February 13, following the resignation of then Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on February 9. With over three months having passed and no visible progress or assurance under the President’s Rule, the PPA launched a state-wide signature campaign on April 15, demanding the re-establishment of a popular government.
Sujata expressed disappointment that none of the MLAs, including the 21 who reportedly submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister seeking the formation of a government, have responded positively to the campaign. While three MLAs did initially engage with the campaign, Sujata noted that they later distanced themselves from the demand after a meeting with BJP North-East in-charge Sambit Patra during his recent visit to the state.
She further criticised the lack of accountability, noting that no decisive action was taken even when a government was in place against the 10 MLAs who have long been demanding a separate administration. The Congress MLA, too, reportedly showed no interest in supporting the PPA’s initiative, raising concerns about the overall political will across party lines.
The PPA, which includes diverse organisations such as the All India Tanzeem-E Insaaf-Manipur (AITI-M), All Manipur Democratic Students’ Organisation (AMDSO), All Manipur Meitei Pangal Clubs’ Organisation (AMMPACO), and Committee on Relief & Rehabilitation (CRR), among others, reaffirmed their commitment to continue pressing for democratic governance in the state.
The alliance called upon all legislators to acknowledge the public mandate and act in the interest of restoring democratic processes in Manipur.