Mon Nov 18 04:38:10 UTC 2024: **Manipur Crisis Deepens: NPP Withdraws Support, Violence Continues**

IMPHAL, INDIA – The crisis in Manipur deepened on Sunday as the National People’s Party (NPP) withdrew its support from the BJP-led state government, citing the government’s failure to control the escalating violence between Meitei and Kuki communities. This follows a weekend of unrest that included attacks on the homes of ministers and a BJP MLA, prompting a curfew and internet suspension in several districts.

The NPP’s withdrawal leaves the BJP government’s majority precarious, though it still technically holds a majority in the 60-member assembly. The decision underscores the growing discontent with the handling of the year-long conflict, which has claimed numerous lives and displaced thousands.

Sunday’s events included:

* **Security Meetings:** Assam Rifles conducted high-level security coordination meetings with state and central forces to improve security in volatile districts.
* **Protests:** The Indian Youth Congress held a candlelight march protesting the violence.
* **Drug Bust:** Assam Rifles and Manipur Police seized a significant amount of heroin in a joint operation.
* **Political Condemnation:** Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge strongly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not visiting the state, a sentiment echoed by other opposition leaders. Congress MLA Keisham Meghachandra offered to resign along with other Congress MLAs to facilitate a fresh mandate for peace.
* **Arrests:** Police arrested 23 people for their involvement in the weekend’s attacks.

The violence, which began in May 2023, has sparked widespread condemnation. The ongoing unrest has led to concerns about the state’s stability and raised questions about the effectiveness of the government’s response. The situation remains tense, with a heavy security presence deployed across Imphal. Union Home Minister Amit Shah cut short his election campaign in Maharashtra to return to Delhi for urgent meetings to address the situation. The CRPF’s Director General is also scheduled to visit the state.

Read More