NAGPUR: In his first public statement following the recent Lok Sabha elections, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat urged the nation to shift its focus from election rhetoric to resolving the ongoing conflict in Manipur.
The state has been engulfed in ethnic violence since May last year, following clashes between Imphal valley-based Meiteis and hill-based Kukis. The conflict has resulted in over 200 deaths and displaced thousands. Recent violence in Jiribam has further exacerbated the situation, with reports of a beheading and an attack on Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s convoy.
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“It’s been a year since Manipur has been waiting for peace. The state remained peaceful for the last 10 years, but suddenly, gun culture has increased again. It is important to resolve the conflict as a priority,” Bhagwat stated, urging immediate action to restore peace in the region.
“(Manipur) Trahi trahi kar rha hai kaun, uspar dhyan dega. Prathmikta dekhke uska vichar karna hi kartavya hai,” Bhagwat remarked, highlighting the ongoing turmoil in Manipur.
Bhagwat’s speech also addressed the broader implications of election rhetoric, advising both the newly formed government and the Opposition to move beyond campaign dynamics and prioritize governance. “Election is a process of building consensus. Parliament has two sides so that both aspects of any question can be presented,” he said, underscoring the need for cooperation between political factions to effectively serve the public.
He criticised the campaign’s contentious nature and called for a collaborative approach moving forward. “The elections are over, and the focus should now shift to nation-building,” Bhagwat said, advocating for a unified effort in addressing the country’s challenges.