At Tamil Nadu rally, Congress leader links ongoing unrest in Manipur to BJP’s governance approach; criticises alleged political interference in regional parties
Tamil Nadu: Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Monday, April 20, launched a sharp attack on the BJP, holding it responsible for the prolonged unrest in Manipur. Speaking at a rally in Colachel, Tamil Nadu, he alleged that the ruling party had “set fire” to what he described as a once peaceful state.
Referring to the ongoing ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, Gandhi said, “A peaceful state has been pushed into violence… and the situation continues.” His remarks come amid fresh tensions following the killing of two children in a militant attack in Tronglaobi Awang Leikai, which triggered protests, road blockades, and clashes in parts of the state. Security forces, in response, used tear gas and smoke shells to control the situation.
The Congress leader further argued that the crisis reflects a broader political pattern. He accused the BJP of attempting to centralise power and influence state politics from New Delhi.
Drawing a parallel with Tamil Nadu, he claimed that regional parties are being weakened. “Wherever possible, they try to control states from Delhi,” he said, alleging that the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) has lost its independent character.
Additionally, Gandhi criticised what he described as an effort to impose a uniform cultural and political framework across India. He emphasised that each state should retain its distinct identity and governance autonomy.
The remarks come ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections scheduled for April 23, where the DMK-led alliance is set to face the NDA bloc.
Also Read: Manipur Police Crack Down on Inflammatory Social Media Post: One Arrested
