In a move that has sparked widespread criticism, the Union Budget 2024 presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has overlooked the plight of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Manipur. Despite facing catastrophic hailstorms and severe floods, the state has been left without any special packages or support in the budget.
The omission has drawn flak from opposition leaders, including Lok Sabha MP Angomcha Bimol Akoijam and Manipur Congress president K Meghachandra. Akoijam took to social media to express his disappointment, stating that the absence of any mention of Manipur in the budget presentation was a stark reminder of the state’s neglect. Meghachandra, on the other hand, alleged a partisan approach in the budget, stating that the Northeast region, particularly Manipur, was overlooked despite its unique challenges.
Manipur has been grappling with the aftermath of severe floods and hailstorms, which have left over 60,000 people displaced. The state has also been reeling under the impact of ethnic violence, which has further exacerbated the humanitarian crisis. In this context, the absence of any support or package for IDPs in the budget has come as a major setback.
In contrast, the BJP Manipur Pradesh has welcomed the budget initiatives, praising the focus on middle-class welfare, employment creation, and entrepreneurship. The party has highlighted the government’s commitment to comprehensive development, social justice, and empowerment programs.
However, critics argue that the budget’s silence on Manipur’s IDPs is a glaring omission. With the state facing unprecedented challenges, the need for special support and packages is more pressing than ever. As the debate over the budget continues, one thing is clear – the plight of Manipur’s IDPs cannot be ignored any longer.
The Union Budget 2024 has sparked a heated debate over its priorities and omissions. While the government has hailed the budget as a major step towards comprehensive development, the neglect of Manipur’s IDPs has raised serious concerns. As the state grapples with unprecedented challenges, it is imperative that the government takes concrete steps to address the humanitarian crisis. Anything less would be a betrayal of the trust reposed in the government by the people of Manipur.
