In a move that has stirred controversy, the Manipur government has reportedly declined permission for Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra,’ scheduled to commence from Hatta Kangjeibung in the Imphal East district on January 14. The decision has sparked criticism from the Congress party, with Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee president Keisham Megachandra calling it “unfortunate” and a “violation of people’s rights.”
Megachandra stated, “We met Chief Minister N Biren Singh and sought permission for the venue of ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra’ at Hatta Kangjeibung in Imphal East district from where the rally is scheduled to be flagged off. However, the chief minister has declined to permit the same.” The Congress leader expressed disappointment over what he deemed an infringement on the right to hold political rallies.
Chief Minister N Biren Singh, addressing concerns about the law and order situation in Manipur, mentioned on Tuesday that the matter is under “active consideration.” Singh acknowledged the critical state of law and order, stating, “The law and order situation in Manipur is very critical.” He assured that a decision regarding permission for Rahul Gandhi’s rally would be taken after receiving reports from various security agencies.
When asked specifically about granting permission for the ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra,’ Singh responded, “Giving permission to Rahul Gandhi’s rally is under active consideration. We are taking reports from various security agencies. After receiving reports from them, we will take a concrete decision.” The Chief Minister’s cautious approach reflects the sensitivity of the situation in Manipur, marked by ethnic violence and a challenging security environment.
Meanwhile, Congress general secretary KC Venugopal revealed that the Manipur government has sought approval from the Centre in connection with Rahul Gandhi’s political rally. The ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra’ is a significant event for the Congress, with national president Mallikarjun Kharge scheduled to flag off the program in the presence of chief ministers from Congress-ruled states and other top party leaders.
The situation in Manipur remains tense, as evident from a recent exchange of gunfire between Manipur Police and militants at Moreh border town along the Indo-Myanmar border. Militants reportedly targeted security forces in certain pockets of Moreh town, leading to heightened security measures. Chief Minister Biren Singh emphasized the combined efforts of Assam Rifles, BSF, and state police in pursuing armed miscreants involved in attacking security forces.
As the political and security dynamics unfold, Manipur finds itself at the center of a delicate situation, balancing the right to political expression with the imperative of maintaining law and order in the state. The decision on permitting Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra’ remains a focal point, raising broader questions about the intersection of politics and security in the region.
