Congress leader Rajesh Kumar Sethi condemns recent abduction killings in Manipur and calls for peace, justice and stronger security measures.
Imphal, May 29: All India Congress Committee (AICC) Minority Department National Coordinator and Manipur in-charge Rajesh Kumar Sethi Jain has strongly condemned the recent abduction and killing incidents involving members of the Naga and Kuki communities in Manipur, describing the violence as deeply disturbing and heartbreaking.
In a press statement issued on Friday, Sethi said such incidents were not only attacks on innocent lives but also against the spirit of coexistence, brotherhood and humanity historically associated with Manipur. He expressed condolences to the bereaved families and stated that no community should be forced to live under fear, insecurity or threat of violence.
“Whether Naga, Kuki-Zo, Meetei, or any other community, every citizen deserves dignity, justice, and protection under the Constitution of India,” the statement said.
Sethi appealed to all communities in the state to exercise restraint and avoid allowing anger, emotions or provocation to further widen divisions among people.
According to the statement, the people of Manipur have already suffered extensively over the past several years, with thousands displaced, families affected and trust between communities severely strained.
Referring to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Sethi stated that the Leader of Opposition has consistently maintained that violence cannot resolve the ongoing crisis and has repeatedly appealed for peace, harmony, dialogue and reconciliation among communities in the state.
The statement noted that during his visits to relief camps and interactions with civil society organisations, Rahul Gandhi had stressed the need to acknowledge the suffering of every affected family and address the crisis through justice and healing.
Sethi also referred to statements made by AICC Minority Department National Chairman and Rajya Sabha MP Imran Pratapgarhi, who, according to the release, has repeatedly spoken against violence, hatred and divisive politics.
The statement said Pratapgarhi had called for stronger humanitarian intervention and accountability while expressing concern over the prolonged suffering of the people of Manipur.
The Congress leader also outlined several demands in response to the recent incidents.
These included a swift, impartial and time-bound investigation into all recent abduction and killing cases, immediate arrest of those responsible and exemplary punishment for the perpetrators irrespective of community or affiliation.
The statement further called for enhanced security arrangements in vulnerable and mixed-population areas across the state. It also sought confidence-building initiatives involving tribal bodies, civil society organisations, churches, community leaders and youth groups to help restore trust among communities.
Sethi additionally urged authorities to take firm action against individuals spreading hatred, misinformation and incitement through social media and other platforms.
According to the statement, both the Central Government and the State authorities must rise above politics and act decisively to restore peace and public confidence in the state.
“Silence and inaction only embolden forces that seek to keep Manipur divided,” the statement added.
Sethi said Manipur currently requires healing, justice, dialogue and reconciliation more than ever before. He stated that the future of the state cannot be built on fear, revenge and ethnic hostility, but must instead be based on constitutional values, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
The statement concluded with an appeal for unity and peace in the state.
“Let us stand together for peace. Let us stand together for justice. Let humanity prevail over hatred,” Sethi stated.
