In anticipation of the 2024 Lok Sabha election, the Congress party unveiled its manifesto, pledging to address the Manipur crisis and deliver a lasting solution to the Naga issue.
Committing to establish a reconciliation commission, the Congress party aims to achieve a political and administrative resolution that satisfies all the people of the State.
Through its manifesto, the Congress party vows to uproot the current State Government of Manipur and foster reconciliation among communities.
It also guarantees just compensation and redress for the victims and survivors of the conflict in Manipur.
On the Naga issue, it declared, “A definitive resolution and agreement will be reached with the Naga groups based on the initial agreement from 2013-14.”
The Congress manifesto also commits to revitalizing the Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) in the North Eastern States, empowering them as effective instruments of local governance.
“We will ensure a greater allocation of funds through the ADCs for developmental projects,” it asserts.
However, the Congress party’s manifesto, unveiled by the INDIA Bloc Manipur in Imphal, includes additional commitments.
It pledges to enact legislation, such as the Displaced Persons (Compensation & Resettlement) Bill, to provide adequate compensation to all those affected by the violence.
Furthermore, it promises legislation to facilitate the integration of young village defense volunteers into the State forces.
Another additional provision is the implementation of a quota system in Government employment for youths who suffered disabilities during the violence.
The Congress party also pledges to establish an inquiry commission to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the damage and losses suffered by the people of Manipur during the violent crisis.
Dubbed Nyay Patra, the Congress manifesto was released at Congress Bhavan in the presence of INDIA Bloc Manipur leaders.
The manifesto promises a multitude of welfare programs and schemes for farmers, workers, Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, women, and children.
The release of the election manifesto was followed by an interactive session with supporters of the Congress candidates from Yaiskul AC and Konthoujam AC.
Addressing the gathering, MPCC president K Meghachandra criticized the BJP’s election campaign, accusing them of spreading misinformation about NRC, SoO, and FMR.
He highlighted that FMR remains unrevoked along the Indo-Myanmar border, and the SoO with Kuki militant groups has not been terminated.
Meghachandra blamed BJP’s mismanagement for exacerbating the Manipur crisis.
Assuring decisive action if elected, he denounced the Chief Minister’s extensive public engagements as a violation of the election model code of conduct.
He lamented BJP MLA RK Imo’s claim that Congress does not support NRC, asserting Congress’s consistent backing for NRC implementation in the State.
Dr. Bimol Akoijam warned of dire consequences if votes were traded for money, highlighting Manipur’s descent into chaos and economic distress.
He urged against personal attacks among candidates and called for a peaceful election.
CPI Manipur State Council Secretariat member Meisnam Sakhi Devi emphasized the unity of purpose behind the formation of INDIA Bloc, urging support for Bimol Akoijam to ensure women’s security.
She cautioned against external influence in the election and appealed for protection of Manipur’s integrity.
Former MPCC president N Loken noted the reluctance of BJP candidates in Manipur and framed the election as a battle between those safeguarding Manipur and those seeking its downfall.
Former MP Dr. Thokchom Meinya, INDIA Block Manipur convenor, Kshetrimayum Shanta Singh, and leaders of allied political parties were also in attendance.
