The Congress has demanded the resignation of Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, the dissolution of the state Assembly and fresh elections amid renewed violence. The opposition party says urgent political action is necessary to restore peace, protect civilians and establish accountability.
Congress MP and party in-charge for Manipur, Saptagiri Ulaka, announced the demands during a press conference in New Delhi on October 25. He also called for time-bound investigations into violent incidents and a clear plan to rehabilitate displaced families.
Manipur violence: Congress demands CM’s resignation
The Congress has accused the state government and the Centre of failing to control the continuing unrest. Ulaka argued that the loss of civilian lives and repeated incidents of violence require stronger action from those responsible for maintaining security.
The party wants Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh to step down, the Assembly to be dissolved and fresh elections to take place. It believes a new political mandate could help address the crisis and rebuild public confidence.
However, these demands represent the Congress’s political position. The call for resignation and fresh polls does not itself change the government’s constitutional status.
Ulaka also urged the Union government to present a concrete plan to end the violence. He stressed that authorities must protect people from every community, especially those living in vulnerable and conflict-affected areas.
Moreover, the party called for an inclusive peace process that addresses the concerns of affected communities rather than relying solely on security measures.
Recent Manipur violence raises fresh concerns
The Congress referred to several recent incidents while explaining its demands. One major concern was the killing of three Meitei civilians on October 19 while they were reportedly collecting firewood in a forest. The incident triggered demands for justice and stronger civilian protection.
According to Ulaka, people brought the victims’ bodies to the Chief Minister’s residence to protest and demand action. The incident renewed questions about the safety of residents in areas affected by the prolonged conflict.
Meanwhile, the Congress also highlighted reports of violence involving Kuki and Naga civilians in Kamjong district. These developments have added to concerns about the wider security situation and the risks faced by communities across Manipur.
The party also referred to demonstrations held on October 23 across five districts. Ulaka alleged that protesters marching towards Lok Bhavan faced police detention, lathi charges and tear gas.
These claims formed part of the opposition’s criticism of the government’s handling of public protests. The allegations underline the need for transparent accounts of the incidents and appropriate investigations wherever complaints warrant action.
Manipur violence: Congress seeks accountability
Beyond its demand for political change, the Congress has called for time-bound investigations and prosecution in cases involving killings, firing, arson and damage to civilian property.
The party wants authorities to investigate each incident and take action against those found responsible. It has also demanded strict enforcement and a review of the ground rules under the Suspension of Operations agreement.
The agreement concerns arrangements involving armed groups in the region. The Congress said authorities should act wherever investigations establish violations of the agreed rules.
Additionally, the party has called for the restoration of free movement across Manipur. Restrictions, insecurity and recurring violence have complicated daily life for residents, making safe travel and access to essential services important concerns.
The Congress argues that accountability must accompany efforts to restore security. Without credible investigations and action against those responsible, public confidence in the administration may remain difficult to rebuild.
Displaced families need a clear peace plan
The conflict has created a prolonged humanitarian crisis, forcing thousands of people from their homes. Many displaced residents continue to face uncertainty over their safety, rehabilitation and eventual return.
Ulaka said the government should establish a credible, time-bound roadmap for peace, rehabilitation and the safe return of internally displaced persons. The Congress also called for humanitarian recommendations to be implemented and accountability measures to be strengthened.
According to figures cited in recent reports, the conflict that began in May 2023 has claimed at least 306 lives, while 49 people remain missing. Thousands have also experienced displacement and disruption to their lives.
These figures reflect the scale of the crisis, although conditions and security risks vary across districts. Therefore, any rehabilitation plan must account for the needs of affected families and the security conditions in their home areas.
The Congress has urged the Centre to coordinate efforts towards a lasting settlement. It says peace measures should include civilian protection, accountability and meaningful engagement with affected communities.
Manipur violence puts pressure on political leadership
Mahila Congress president Alka Lamba also criticised the government’s response after visiting Manipur from October 1 to 4. She said she had met women affected by the violence and questioned the authorities’ ability to prevent further incidents.
Lamba accused the BJP government of failing to stop the violence and ensure accountability. Her remarks reflected the Congress’s wider argument that the crisis requires urgent political and administrative intervention.
However, the path towards lasting peace will require more than political demands. Effective investigations, protection for civilians, rehabilitation and sustained dialogue remain central challenges for the authorities.
As fresh incidents raise concerns over security, pressure is growing on both the state and Union governments to demonstrate progress. The Congress continues to demand the Chief Minister’s resignation, Assembly dissolution and fresh elections.
Ultimately, the immediate priority remains the safety of civilians across Manipur. A credible peace plan, transparent accountability and practical support for displaced families will be essential to rebuilding trust and moving towards lasting stability.