Hands-On Approach Ensures Permanent Solution to Ethnic Conflict, Claims Union Minister
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is taking a hands-on approach to achieving a lasting resolution to the ongoing crisis in Manipur, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju emphasized on Friday. Addressing the India Today Conclave, Rijiju expressed confidence that peace would soon return to the region, highlighting the government's targeted strategy to resolve the longstanding ethnic tensions between two communities.Responding to opposition demands for Prime Minister Modi to personally visit Manipur, Rijiju countered that physical visits were secondary compared to an informed understanding and direct involvement in addressing the core issues.
"What do you mean by the Prime Minister visiting a place where there is a problem? The Prime Minister should know the problem—that is more important," Rijiju remarked. He added, "Visiting and making a statement is another thing. This is the only Prime Minister who has gone to the root to ensure that the problems faced by the people of Manipur are settled and solved forever."
Focused Intervention by Central Leadership
Rijiju pointed out the stark contrast with past approaches to managing violence in the northeastern state. He highlighted instances when thousands lost their lives in Manipur, yet only junior officials at the level of joint secretary briefly visited the troubled region.In contrast, Home Minister Amit Shah recently stayed in Manipur for four consecutive days, actively appealing for peace and stability. "I am very hopeful that with the hands-on approach of the Prime Minister and the Home Minister, we are all equally focused on addressing this issue," Rijiju stated.
Following the imposition of President’s Rule, the Manipur Governor also called for the surrender of arms, an initiative Rijiju reported as bearing fruit. "Arms are being surrendered—good news is coming," he noted optimistically.
BJP's Northeast Growth Attributed to Modi's Vision
Highlighting the BJP's rising popularity in northeastern states, Rijiju attributed the party’s growth to Narendra Modi’s forward-looking policies and deep commitment to regional development. He suggested that Modi's vision has strongly resonated with local populations, leading to the BJP flourishing significantly in the last decade.Taking a swipe at the opposition Congress, Rijiju stated confidently, "What could not be done in 65 years, the BJP has done in 10 years."
The minister reiterated that the government's proactive and direct approach is instrumental in establishing sustainable peace and prosperity in Manipur.