Security concerns halt Rahul Gandhi’s journey to Churachandpur in Manipur

Congress leader, Rahul Gandhi‘s much-anticipated visit to Manipur to interact with people displaced by ethnic conflicts was hindered by the local police yesterday.

He was stopped midway due to security concerns, delaying his arrival at Churachandpur where he eventually met with affected individuals in a relief camp.

Rahul Gandhi’s journey to Churachandpur, in the conflict-ridden state of Manipur, was interrupted by authorities citing security reasons and restrictions on VIP movement in certain areas. According to the Manipur Congress president, Keisham Meghachandra, the politician was prohibited from traveling to Moirang by road or air. It is stated that he was only permitted to meet those affected by the violence in Churachandpur, causing confusion about the continuation of his scheduled visits.

Security issues impede Rahul Gandhi’s visit to Churachandpur in Manipur. Photo courtesy of Sidheeq/Wikimedia Commons.

Amidst these events, agitated locals attempted to breach the barricades when Rahul Gandhi’s convoy passed, which led to the police resorting to tear gas to disperse the crowd. A scuffle also broke out between the police and the crowd in Bishnupur where the convoy was halted. Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal expressed puzzlement over the police’s decision to stop the convoy, given that their visit was to meet the affected people.

The incident drew criticism from Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge who accused the Manipur government of using autocratic methods to prevent Rahul Gandhi’s outreach. He further remarked that such actions were unacceptable and violated constitutional and democratic norms, calling for peace instead of confrontation in Manipur.

Despite the disruptions, Rahul Gandhi, during his two-day visit to the state, aims to meet with displaced individuals in relief camps and hold discussions with civil society organizations. This visit marks his first since the onset of the violent ethnic clashes in May.

Another Congress leader, Supriya Shrinate, criticized the central government for its alleged inaction during the crisis in Manipur. She accused them of trying to block Rahul Gandhi’s peace-building visit after failing to address the situation for two months. She questioned the government’s intent in stopping the unrest in Manipur and argued that Rahul Gandhi’s journey would continue, whether by road or helicopter.