Mohan Bhagwat criticised the political rhetoric surrounding elections, urging a focus on national issues instead.
Team Clarion
NAGPUR – There was an urgent need for peace and a swift end to political distractions amidst escalating violence in Manipur, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat has said.
Speaking at the ‘Karyakarta Vikas Varg – Dwitiya’ programme for RSS trainees here on Monday, Bhagwat highlighted the sudden resurgence of violence in the northeastern state and stressed the importance of prioritising the resolution of these conflicts.
“It looked like the gun culture had finally ended in this northeastern state. However, violence has erupted ‘suddenly’ and needs to be addressed without any delay,” Bhagwat said.
He pointed out that Manipur had enjoyed a decade of peace until the recent outbreak of violence, which began in May last year pitting the Meitei and Kuki communities against each other. Since the initial clashes, approximately 200 people have lost their lives, and thousands have been displaced due to widespread arson and destruction of property. Recent reports indicate fresh violence in Jiribam, coinciding with Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s visit to the area.
Bhagwat criticised the political rhetoric surrounding elections, urging a focus on national issues instead. “Elections are held in India every five years. Let us continue to do our duty. Lokmat is held every year, every election and it has been done this time too. The way they criticise each other, misuse technology and spread lies during the election campaign, it’s not quite right,” he remarked.
Bhagwat also addressed the broader societal implications of the ongoing unrest in Manipur. He noted that while elections are a vital part of democracy, they should not overshadow pressing issues such as the current crisis in Manipur. “Society has to stand up for itself. Bhimrao Ambedkar said that a great spiritual awakening precedes a great change. The work of building society is to be done. Society should have values. Our society is full of diversity. Unity should be maintained in society,” he added.
The RSS chief also commented on the recent election results, acknowledging the people’s mandate and the return of the NDA government to power. “Democracy has its own rules and regulations and it operates according to them. The people have given their mandate and it is not right to comment on it in any way,” he said, urging respect for the democratic process.
As Manipur continues to grapple with violence and instability, Bhagwat’s call for peace and unity resonates strongly, highlighting the need for immediate and decisive action to restore normalcy in the region.
