Meghalaya CM Slams Biren Singh over P.A. Sangma Remarks, Backlash Ignites Political Tensions in Northeast India
Manipur’s Politics: BJP Leader Accuses Late Lok Sabha Speaker of Fueling Ethnic Division
Imphal’s former Chief Minister, N Biren Singh, has sparked a heated controversy by claiming that late Lok Sabha Speaker P A Sangma advocated for dividing the Northeast region along ethnic lines. Meghalaya’s Chief Minister, Conrad K Sangma, son of the late leader, has refuted the accusation, calling for unity and peace in Manipur instead of political blame games.
Singh, who made the statement on social media, alleged that Sangma’s idea would threaten the unity of the nation. He emphasized that Manipur’s unique situation, with its small and vulnerable indigenous communities, necessitates measures like the Inner Line Permit (ILP) for their protection. Singling out Meghalaya’s Chief Minister, Singh questioned whether he was aware of the security measures being taken in Manipur, including border fencing and regulation of the Free Movement Regime (FMR).
The former Chief Minister also criticized external interference in Manipur’s affairs, urging others to refrain from meddling in the state’s internal affairs. He attached an old video of Sangma’s speech to support his claims, reiterating his stance that Manipur’s situation is not comparable to any other region.
Conrad Sangma, however, dismissed the accusations, defending his father’s legacy and urging for unity and peace in Manipur. In a social media post, he wrote, “It’s unfortunate that N Biren Singh has dragged the name of (L) P A Sangma ji… Sangma ji has always fought for the people of the Northeast, was a strong advocate for different issues and rights of the people of the Northeast.” Sangma further appealed for unity, saying, “At this time, everyone’s efforts should be towards the restoration of peace and harmony in Manipur and not indulge in political posturing.”
As tensions continue to simmer in Manipur, the state has been under President’s Rule since February 13, following the resignation of Singh as Chief Minister. Singh’s predecessor, Okram Ibobi Singh, had also championed the cause of identifying illegal immigrants, citing concerns over the sharp rise in unrecognized villages.
Government data shows that the Kangpokpi, Tengnoupal, Chandel, Churachandpur, and Pherzawl districts saw a 122% increase in villages between 1969 and the present, whereas Naga-dominated hill districts experienced only a 9% rise.
As the Northeast region continues to grapple with complex issues, it remains to be seen whether a peaceful resolution can be brokered, and what implications this controversy may have on the region’s delicate political landscape.
Original Source: https://nenews.in/manipur/biren-singhs-remarks-on-p-a-sangma-spark-backlash-from-meghalaya-cm/22668/
Category : Manipur,Meghalaya,Biren Singh,Conrad K Sangma,NPP,PA Sangma,Political row
Tags:
Publish Date: 2025-03-31 17:24:00
