BJP's Machinations Yielded No Peace in Manipur: Mallikarjun Kharge

Mallikarjun Kharge Criticises BJP Over Manipur Violence

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has accused the BJP-led government of failing to restore lasting peace in Manipur, following fresh incidents of violence and civilian killings in the northeastern state.

In a statement on October 21, 2026, Kharge described the continuing bloodshed as evidence of the government's failure to ensure law and order, protect constitutional rights and safeguard national security. He also questioned whether the political changes made in the state had helped bring stability.

Kharge argued that the imposition of President's Rule, the replacement of the chief minister and the subsequent return of a BJP-led government had not resolved the crisis. His remarks intensified the political debate over the Centre's handling of the prolonged unrest.

Congress Raises Concern Over Recent Civilian Killings

Kharge's criticism followed reports of fresh violence in Manipur that resulted in civilian deaths. He expressed condolences to the affected families and called for stronger measures to protect residents.

According to reports, the state has continued to experience violence involving different communities, even after repeated efforts to restore normalcy. The latest incidents have renewed concerns about security, reconciliation and the safety of people living in affected districts.

The Congress president said the continued loss of lives demonstrated the urgent need for accountability and effective action by the state and central governments.

More Than 300 Deaths Since May 2023, Says Kharge

Referring to the ethnic conflict that began in May 2023, Kharge said more than 300 people had lost their lives and approximately 24,530 people remained in relief camps.

He highlighted the difficulties faced by displaced families, particularly women, children and other vulnerable groups. The prolonged displacement has raised questions about access to safe housing, healthcare, education, livelihood opportunities and long-term rehabilitation.

Kharge argued that restoring peace must involve more than security measures. It must also include the safe return or rehabilitation of displaced residents and efforts to rebuild trust among communities. The figures cited in his statement reflect his account of the situation.

Kharge Questions Modi and Amit Shah on Peace Efforts

Kharge called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to explain what steps the government had taken to address the continuing crisis.

He raised questions about the Peace Committee constituted by Shah in June 2023, seeking details of its progress and the concrete measures adopted to restore peace and protect civilians.

The Congress president also questioned what action had been taken on the recommendations of the Supreme Court-appointed committee led by former Jammu and Kashmir High Court Chief Justice Gita Mittal. The committee has been involved in issues concerning relief, rehabilitation and the welfare of internally displaced people.

Kharge further sought answers about the safety and dignity of women and children living in relief camps and the steps being taken to improve their conditions.

Supreme Court Concerns Over Deaths in Relief Camps

The condition of displaced people has remained a major concern during the Manipur crisis. Kharge referred to the Supreme Court's concerns over unnatural deaths reported in relief camps and questioned why thousands of people continued to face displacement.

Reports have highlighted the need for investigations into deaths in camps, along with improvements in living conditions and access to essential services. The issue has placed renewed attention on the responsibilities of the authorities to ensure that displaced families receive adequate protection and support.

Effective rehabilitation remains an important part of efforts to address the humanitarian consequences of the conflict.

Manipur's Ethnic Conflict and the Challenge of Lasting Peace

The violence that erupted in May 2023 largely involved the Meitei community, concentrated mainly in the Imphal Valley, and the Kuki-Zo tribal communities in the surrounding hill districts. The conflict led to deaths, destruction of homes and widespread displacement.

Although authorities have taken steps to improve security and facilitate relief, recurring incidents of violence have continued to complicate the restoration of normal life.

The situation presents several interconnected challenges, including protecting civilians, addressing allegations of violence, rebuilding trust between communities and enabling displaced families to return home safely or obtain suitable rehabilitation.

A durable resolution will require sustained security measures, accountability, dialogue and attention to the needs of affected communities.

Congress Demands Accountability and Lasting Peace

Kharge said Manipur deserved justice, dignity, constitutional rights and lasting peace. He argued that the state's strategic location along India's international border made security and stability especially important.

His remarks reflect the Congress party's criticism of the BJP government's handling of the crisis. The BJP-led government faces continuing questions over its response to the violence, while restoring public confidence and preventing further civilian casualties remain major challenges.

The immediate priorities include protecting residents, investigating violent incidents, improving relief-camp conditions and developing a credible path towards rehabilitation and reconciliation.

Key Takeaways

• Mallikarjun Kharge has accused the BJP-led government of failing to restore lasting peace in Manipur.

• He cited continuing violence and civilian deaths as reasons for renewed concern.

• Kharge said more than 300 people had died and approximately 24,530 remained in relief camps since the conflict began in May 2023.

• He questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah about the Peace Committee formed in June 2023.

• He sought details of action taken on recommendations from the Supreme Court-appointed Justice Gita Mittal Committee.

• The safety of civilians, rehabilitation of displaced families and prevention of further violence remain key challenges.