PA Sangma Stands Tall for Northeast’s Rights, Slams CM Biren Singh: A Fight for Justice and Dignity

As the dust settles in Manipur, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma wades into the maelstrom, his voice a clarion call for peace and harmony in the violence-ravaged state. The remarkable leader, son of the late P.A. Sangma, former Union Minister and Lok Sabha Speaker, has always stood strong for the rights of the people of the Northeast.

Joining the chorus of voices demanding an end to the chaos, the Meghalaya CM responded to a post by former Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, urging all stakeholders to work together for the betterment of the people of Manipur. “It’s unfortunate that N. Biren Singh has dragged the name of (L) P. A. Sangma. Sangma always fought for the people of the Northeast,” he posted on X. “He was a strong advocate for different issues and rights of the people of the Northeast. At this time, everyone’s efforts should be towards the restoration of peace and harmony in Manipur and not indulge in political posturing.”

Citing his late father’s commitment to the cause, Sangma emphasized that “we all have to work together. I once again appeal to everyone to work for the betterment of the people of Manipur. This is what (L) P. A. Sangma would have wanted.” Given the tumultuous landscape, this clarion call for cooperation is music to the ears of residents desperate for a return to normalcy.

Singh, however, is unimpressed, unleashing a scathing attack on the Sangma family’s legacy. “P.A. Sangma had advocated for dividing the Northeast into smaller states along ethnic lines, a dangerous idea that threatened the unity of our nation,” he wrote. “Today, we are seeing similar attempts to interfere in Manipur’s internal affairs to destabilize the state.” Singh’s blistering critique has sparked a heated debate, with Sangma’s critics portraying him as a champion of divisive policies that threaten the region’s delicate balance.

Sangma’s detractors point to the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP), a policy long contested by indigenous communities, as a thinly veiled attempt to disenfranchise vulnerable populations. “Manipur’s situation is unique,” Singh claimed. “This state is home to several small, vulnerable indigenous communities whose protection necessitated the implementation of the ILP, a hard-won achievement.”

Sangma’s supporters, on the other hand, argue that the true purpose of the ILP is to safeguard indigenous populations, ensuring their protection and rights. “Conrad K. Sangma should know that the violence was not spontaneous, it was instigated by those who feel threatened and insecure by this kind of progress,” Singh countered.

Reeling from the political tumult, the Meghalaya CM has appealed for cooperation, citing his late father’s unwavering commitment to the people of the Northeast. As the crisis deepens, Sangma’s impassioned plea for peace may prove the only beacon of hope in this troubled land. Will the warring factions heed his call, or will the cacophony of conflict continue to shatter the fragile peace that once defined the region? Only time will tell.

Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2025/03/31/pa-sangma-fought-for-rights-of-ne-people-meghalaya-cm-sangma-retorts-to-biren-singh/
Category : MEGHALAYA,News Alert,REGIONAL
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Publish Date: 2025-03-31 18:18:00