Okram Ibobi Singh Urges Immediate Intervention by PM Modi Amid Manipur Crisis, Warns of Mass Resignations

Guwahati: On November 17, former Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh made a strong appeal for the immediate intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address the ongoing crisis in the state. Speaking at a press conference, Singh criticized both the state and central governments for their failure to manage the situation, which has spiraled into widespread violence and lawlessness.Singh described the current situation in Manipur as unprecedented, with innocent civilians, including women and children, being killed indiscriminately. He condemned the violence as a direct consequence of the breakdown in governance, calling out both the state and central administrations for their inability to maintain order. “What is happening in Manipur is beyond what we ever anticipated. The lives of our people, regardless of their caste or religion, are at risk. This situation demands immediate and decisive action,” he said.In a strongly-worded statement, Singh warned that further inaction would prompt drastic political measures, including the potential resignation of legislators from all parties. “If the situation continues to deteriorate and our voices are ignored, we may have no choice but to resign en masse. What is the point of being part of an Assembly if it fails to represent the people’s interests?” Singh remarked.He also called on the current Chief Minister, N. Biren Singh, to urgently request an audience with the Prime Minister to present the gravity of the situation. Singh noted that Manipur’s lawmakers had been seeking a meeting with PM Modi for months, but their pleas had gone unanswered. “If the Prime Minister does not act now, we will be forced to take a final step,” he warned.Although Singh expressed his willingness to resign if necessary to resolve the crisis, he emphasized that such a step would only be taken as a last resort. “We were elected to serve the people, and resignation without reason would be irresponsible. However, if stepping down is the only way to bring peace to our state, we are ready to do so,” he said.Addressing speculation about the possibility of President’s Rule being imposed in Manipur, Singh stated that the people of the state were against such a move. He clarified that the solution to the crisis must come through constitutional means rather than central intervention. “The demand for Biren Singh’s resignation is a matter for the BJP to address. The failure of governance needs to be resolved within the framework of the Constitution, not by imposing central rule,” he added.Singh also called on all political leaders and stakeholders in Manipur to put aside their differences and work together for the welfare of the people. “This issue is not just political; it’s about the survival, dignity, and well-being of the people of Manipur,” he said, urging a collective effort to bring the crisis to an end.As the situation in Manipur continues to worsen, the demand for central intervention grows, with hopes that the state’s leaders can put aside political differences and prioritize the safety and peace of its citizens.