Shri Shah emphasised that this was not a failure of governance, terrorism, or religious violence, but rather ethnic strife between two communities, sparked by a High Court decision. He said the violence stemmed from a sense of insecurity and misinterpretation of the court’s order, which was subsequently stayed by the Supreme Court for being unconstitutional.

Recalling the past, the Minister highlighted that during the opposition’s rule in Manipur, the state witnessed over 200 days of curfews and strikes annually, and more than 1,000 deaths in encounters. He noted that the then Prime Minister had not visited the state even during major conflicts like the Naga-Kuki, Kuki-Paite, and Meitei-Pangal clashes that claimed hundreds of lives.

Shri Shah distinguished between ethnic violence and Naxalism, pointing out that each requires a different approach. He criticised the opposition for failing to recognise this difference and for politicising sensitive matters. He further stated that the imposition of President’s Rule was not aimed at shielding anyone and assured that it would be lifted as soon as normalcy returns.

Providing a broader context, he highlighted that the Modi government had brought down violence in the Northeast by 70 per cent, reduced civilian casualties by 85 per cent, and signed 20 peace accords leading to the surrender of over 10,000 armed youth.

Shri Shah expressed optimism that both communities in Manipur would choose dialogue over conflict, and informed the House that several meetings had already taken place, with more scheduled in Delhi. He affirmed his government’s commitment to restoring peace and lifting President’s Rule at the earliest.