“Welcome, Amit Shah; No Entry, Rahul Gandhi” Wait! Has Mr. Shah brought a solution?

As the violence in Manipur persists and approaches its 30th day, the arrival of Union Home Minister Amit Shah was met with hopeful anticipation from the people of Manipur, who yearned for the restoration of peace in their once tranquil state. Unfortunately, Shah’s efforts proved inadequate in meeting these expectations. However, when Congress leader Rahul Gandhi arrived, it becomes evident that the notion of people unwelcoming him is far from the truth. The striking contrast in the public’s response to these two leaders raises questions about the indifference displayed towards their efforts. While Shah’s attempts to address the crisis fell short, Rahul Gandhi’s visit was merely intended to assess the situation and understand the concerns of the people. So why the perception of a “protest”?
Following Rahul’s arrival in Imphal and on his journey to Churachandpur, news agency PTI reported that his convoy was halted as a “precautionary” measure due to a “fear of violence,” according to a police officer. However, Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal presented a different account, questioning the rationale behind the police’s decision. In an interview with news agency ANI, he expressed his bewilderment, stating, “Rahul Gandhi’s convoy has been stopped by police near Bishnupur. Police say that they are not in a position to allow us. People are standing on both sides of the road to wave to Rahul Gandhi. We are unable to understand why they have stopped us.”
As security forces prevented Rahul Gandhi from entering Churachandpur by road, just approximately 20 kilometers away from his destination, serious allegations were levelled against Chief Minister N Biren Singh. KeishamMeghachandra, the Congress state president, claimed that Singh had ordered the convoy’s halt because “everyone was welcoming him.”Regardless of the validity of Meghachandra’s accusation, it is evident that the state government failed to ensure Rahul Gandhi’s safe travel to Churachandpur, which is truly unfortunate but not entirely unexpected considering the high death toll in the state in the current crisis.
It is evident that the failure of CM N Biren Singh to effectively control the violence and protect both the Kuki and Meitei communities has resulted in a loss of faith among the people. Even when Singh faltered, his superior, Amit Shah, stepped in, only to prove ineffective as well. Following the failure of the BJP’s self-proclaimed “Double Engine Government” to address the crisis, it is no surprise that the people of Manipur have lost confidence in both Home Minister Amit Shah and Chief Minister N. Biren Singh.
The violence, characterized by senseless killings, rampant arson, and the forced displacement of people, has engulfed the entire state. Despite the state government’s repeated assurances of safeguarding its people from both communities, their actions have failed to match their words. Over the course of approximately 60 days, the violence has claimed the lives of more than 120 individuals, with more than 4,000 properties left in ruins. Biren and Shah have proven incapable of putting an end to this chaos. In light of their evident failure, it is only fair that the people of Manipur consider giving Rahul Gandhi an opportunity to address the dire situation.
It is abundantly clear that Manipur urgently requires a fresh approach to tackle the ongoing crisis. The current leadership has proven ineffective in restoring peace and ensuring the safety of the lives and properties of its citizens. The people of Manipur deserve a leader who can usher in positive change and effectively address the formidable challenges the state currently faces. It is high time to reassess our options and explore new avenues for resolving the prevailing crisis at hand.