Congress Manifesto Promises To Remove Manipur Govt, Establish Reconciliation Commission To Settle Rift

Lok Sabha Election 2024: The Congress has vowed to address communal clashes and heal wounds between communities. It has proposed the appointment of a reconciliation commission to facilitate the same

File Photo of Indian Youth Congress protest over Manipur Violence ( Image Source :PTI )

Lok Sabha Election 2024: The Congress party, in its manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, has pledged to remove the current government in Manipur and establish a reconciliation commission to address the prevailing unrest in the state. The manifesto, focusing on five "pillars of justice" and 25 guarantees, was released at the AICC headquarters in the presence of Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, and Rahul Gandhi.

Expressing concern over the deteriorating situation in Manipur under the BJP-led NDA government, the Congress has vowed to address communal clashes and heal wounds between communities. It has proposed the appointment of a reconciliation commission to facilitate a political and administrative settlement that satisfies all sections of the society.

Moreover, the Congress has promised to work towards a final solution with Naga groups based on the preliminary pact agreed upon in 2013-14. The party also plans to assess the infrastructure deficit in northeastern states and allocate more funds for infrastructure development. It aims to revive Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) in the region to enhance local governance and ensure that funds are efficiently utilised for development projects.

Congress Manifesto Pledges To Ensure Fair Wages For Tea Garden Workers

In addition, the Congress manifesto outlines plans to support border trade and enhance the welfare of tea garden workers. The party pledges to ensure that tea garden workers receive fair wages and other benefits as per applicable laws and agreements.

The manifesto release comes against the backdrop of ongoing ethnic clashes in Manipur since May last year, resulting in the loss of lives and widespread unrest. The clashes were sparked by protests against the demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status by the Meitei community. The Congress has expressed solidarity with the victims and survivors of the conflict and has committed to providing appropriate compensation and redress.

The Lok Sabha elections are scheduled to be held in seven phases, commencing on April 19, with the counting of votes scheduled for June 4. Manipur is set to go to polls in the first two phases on April 19 and April 26.