Manipur: Congress MP Angomcha Bimol Akoijam Warns Against ‘Normalising Division’ Amidst Ongoing Ethnic Crisis

Imphal, April 20: Congress Lok Sabha MP from Inner Manipur, Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, has raised strong concerns over what he terms as an attempt to “normalise the division” of Manipur, warning that such a move threatens the integrity of the state amidst the ongoing ethnic unrest.

Speaking to the media at his residence in Imphal, Akoijam alleged that the restrictions on free movement and the prolonged conflict could be part of a deliberate strategy to deepen communal fault lines. He underscored that these measures, if left unchecked, risk institutionalising division and setting a dangerous precedent.

Highlighting the state’s long-standing issue of a porous border and the rise in illegal immigration, the Congress MP said that Manipur’s demographic dynamics are shifting in an “alarming manner.” Akoijam called for the establishment of a legal and judicious framework to distinguish citizens from non-citizens.

“There is a twisted nature of demographic character in the state. We must resolve this in the long run, but right now, our focus must be on addressing the ongoing conflict and restricted movement. Normalising this division is a far greater threat,” he said.

Akoijam also emphasised the need to first restore the integrity of the state before addressing the demographic concerns, stating that any discussion on illegal immigrants should not divert attention from the fact that the state is facing a de facto division.

The MP further stressed that the return of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and restoration of free movement are non-negotiable conditions for a return to normalcy. “Until and unless we have free movement and displaced persons are able to return home, we cannot claim peace has returned,” he added.

Raising concerns about the conduct of security operations, Akoijam demanded clarity on the status of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with insurgent groups. He cautioned against selective targeting, which, he said, could fuel the perception of bias and worsen the crisis.

“When armed groups are cracked down upon, it must be done judiciously. It should not look like a partition activity. Certain communities are being targeted while others are not — that should not be the case,” he asserted.

As Manipur continues to grapple with unrest, Akoijam’s remarks underscore the need for a balanced and inclusive approach to restore peace and protect the state’s unity.