Manipur continues to grapple with escalating violence as irate mobs targeted the homes of political leaders following the abduction and murder of six individuals in Jiribam. On November 16, protesters vandalized or set ablaze the residences of 13 lawmakers, including a state minister, nine BJP MLAs, one Congress MLA, one JD(U) representative, and an independent legislator.
The unrest has plunged the state into chaos, with properties in the valley districts facing widespread damage. Former Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh, addressing the media on November 17, criticized the state and central governments for their inability to maintain law and order, calling the situation “unprecedented and condemnable.”
Singh appealed for immediate intervention from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to restore normalcy. “The violence is beyond belief. Infants and women, irrespective of caste or religion, are becoming victims. This reflects the failure of governance at all levels,” he said, warning of potential mass resignations by legislators if no action is taken.
Singh urged Chief Minister N. Biren Singh to facilitate a meeting with the Prime Minister, emphasizing the futility of holding positions if lawmakers’ concerns remain unheard. He expressed readiness to resign if it would aid in resolving the crisis but stressed that such action would only be a last resort.