Imphal: It is not possible to restore peace in Manipur unless all internally displaced persons (IDPs) are fully rehabilitated, said Lok Sabha MP Dr Angomcha Bimol Akoijam on Wednesday.
The Manipur representative was speaking to reporters ahead of the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament to begin on July 21 and conclude on August 12.
“Without complete rehabilitation of IDPs, the situation in Manipur cannot be said to be peaceful. Without a concrete policy for the rehabilitation of IDPs, the resettlement process cannot deliver justice to them,” Bimol said reacting on the government’s plans to shut down all relief camps by December end, in three phases starting from July to December.
He said he acknowledged the government’s move, a step in the right direction, but emphasized the need for a clear and strong policy to ensure all IDPs are returned to their original homes.
On the issue of restricted movement and the so-called ‘buffer zone,’ Bimol said the right to free movement within the state is being denied to citizens. “This so-called buffer zone is not an officially designated area. It was created by security forces to control the mob during the early phase of the May 3, 2023 incident,” he said.
Referring to the President’s Rule in the state, Bimol said many employees, including Covid-19 frontline workers and teachers, have been deprived of their monthly salaries for nearly a year.
He alleged that centrally sponsored schemes have not reached the people despite being implemented on paper.
“These issues will be raised on the floor of Parliament if given the opportunity.”
Commenting on the possibility of President’s Rule to extend for another six months, Bimol urged the BJP government to either form a new popular government or go for fresh elections. “If you cannot fulfil this, then let’s go for a fresh mandate to elect new representatives,” he said.
