Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra passes through violence-hit areas of Manipur

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra faces a deep social divide and distrust in Manipur.

The sense of normalcy visible at Imphal city gradually gives way to a sense of distrust and a deep divide as Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra passed through Imphal West and into Kuki-dominated Kangpokpi. 

On Monday, January 15, 2024 , second day of the 67-day long Manipur-to-Mumbai yatra, Mr. Gandhi’s customised Volvo bus went past some of the areas that had become battlegrounds after ethnic violence between the Meitei community and the Kuki tribes erupted on May 3.

Deployment of security personnel outside some villages, a completely damaged house with a signboard that read “Meitei Go,” several signs boards that read “Welcome to Kuki land,” the signs of a deep social divide was very much visible.

Manipur Congress chief Keisham Meghachandra Singh, Former Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh, both from the Meitei community, were missing from Mr. Gandhi’s entourage as enthusiastic crowds lined up the narrow roads while moving from Imphal to Kohima. 

At Karong, a group of young boys with the Indian tricolour in their hands, alternated their slogans between “Rahul Gandhi zindabad” and “We want separate administration”.

“I understand that you have been through . You have lost family members, you have lost property. I want you to understand that we are fully with you and want to bring peace to Manipur,” Mr. Gandhi said in one of his roadside public address. 

At different points, be it Keithelmanbi Military Colony or Kalapahar Bazar at Kangpokpi district, boards announced that outsiders were not allowed after 5pm.