Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has strongly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s brief three-hour visit to Manipur, describing it as an insult to the people of the state. According to Ramesh, such a short visit does not adequately reflect the seriousness of the issues faced by Manipur, including law and order challenges, developmental delays, and public welfare concerns.
Ramesh stated that the visit appeared largely symbolic and lacked meaningful engagement with local communities. He noted that Manipur, which has been grappling with social tensions and economic challenges, requires consistent and sustained attention from the central government rather than brief appearances. “The people of Manipur deserve substantive action, not symbolic gestures,” he remarked during a media interaction.
The Congress leader pointed out that the state has faced ongoing issues related to security, unemployment, infrastructure, and education. He emphasized that addressing these concerns requires a comprehensive strategy and regular monitoring, which cannot be achieved in a visit lasting only a few hours. Ramesh added that while the Prime Minister’s presence may attract media attention, it does little to resolve the underlying challenges faced by citizens on a daily basis.
He further criticized the central government for prioritizing photo opportunities over policy engagement. Ramesh suggested that instead of spending only three hours in Manipur, officials should conduct extensive consultations with local leaders, civil society representatives, and community organizations to identify effective solutions for the state’s long-standing problems.
The Congress leader also highlighted the importance of sustained investment in health, education, and infrastructure to promote inclusive development in the region. He argued that Manipur’s strategic position in India’s northeast makes it essential for the central government to actively participate in long-term developmental initiatives rather than temporary, symbolic visits.
Ramesh called for more frequent visits by policymakers that include on-ground assessments, discussions with local officials, and engagement with residents affected by various challenges. He stressed that a structured plan with clear timelines and accountability mechanisms is crucial to ensuring meaningful progress in Manipur.
While acknowledging that the Prime Minister’s visit may have included ceremonial events and interactions with selected groups, Ramesh argued that such short engagements do not meet the expectations of the people who seek tangible improvements in governance and development.
In conclusion, Jairam Ramesh urged the government to focus on sustained policy initiatives and regular engagement with Manipur’s population. He asserted that only through meaningful action and a long-term commitment can the central government earn the trust of the state’s residents and address their pressing issues effectively.
