Guwahati: Congress MP Angomcha Bimol Akoijam on Friday said recent incidents of fresh violence in Manipur were being driven by radical fringe elements opposed to a peaceful resolution of the ongoing crisis, stressing that the unrest remains localised and is not widespread.
Responding to the developments, Akoijam said such elements have been active since the beginning of the conflict and continue to disrupt efforts aimed at restoring normalcy in the state.
“There are radical elements who are against a peaceful resolution. This is how the violence started. It is not widespread but limited to certain pockets. These are fringe elements, and it is unfortunate,” he said.
Emphasising the need for restraint, the Congress MP said that while grievances may exist, they must be addressed through dialogue and constitutional means. He cautioned that no one should be allowed to take the law into their own hands.
Akoijam also called on the Government of India to adopt a sincere and transparent approach in resolving the Manipur crisis. He said the Centre must ensure that the state government is provided with adequate institutional support to function effectively.
Referring to the recent change in leadership, Akoijam said the new Chief Minister must uphold constitutional values and protect the autonomy of democratic institutions. “The Centre must be honest in its approach and ensure that the state government has all the conditions necessary to function properly,” he added.
Meanwhile, Manipur Minister Govindas Konthoujam said the situation in Churachandpur remained under control despite some disturbances. He acknowledged that normalcy had not fully returned but said adequate security arrangements were in place.
“People are expressing their discontent, but there has been no violence. Security forces are deployed, and the situation is under control. Gradually, things will improve,” Konthoujam said.
Manipur has continued to witness sporadic incidents of unrest even as security forces remain deployed in sensitive areas. Political leaders have increasingly appealed for restraint, dialogue and adherence to constitutional processes to help restore lasting peace in the state.