Imphal, Sep 26 Manipur Congress president O Ibobi Singh on Saturday accused the state and central governments of remaining “silent spectators” to a series of civilian killings by suspected militants in the ethnic strife-hit state.
Addressing a press conference here, Ibobi said, “We are even embarrassed to speak about the prevailing law and order situation. The government is behaving as if it is not concerned about the killings of civilians of any community.”
“We strongly condemn the killings of innocent civilians from Naga, Kuki and Meitei communities. Such killings should not be viewed as entertainment. The state and central governments are viewing the killings in the state as silent spectators,” he said.
Reacting to reports that suspected militants from Myanmar had crossed into Manipur and shot dead four Naga civilians at Pilong village in Kamjong district, the former three-time chief minister questioned the security arrangements along the border.
“Who is guarding the porous border areas in the state?” he asked.
“If the state government is unable to convey the prevailing situation to the Centre, what is the point of having a state government?” Ibobi said.
He also expressed doubts over the restoration of peace and mutual trust among the communities under the present governments.
“We don’t believe peace and mutual trust among communities will be restored as long as the present Centre and state government are there,” he said.
Ibobi also questioned what measures the government had taken following the deaths of civilians, apart from issuing condemnations.
At least 11 people have been killed in separate gun attacks in September in Tamenglong, Noney and Kamjong districts, according to reports.
(PTI News)
