“A Nobody Like Me…”: Manipur Congress MP’s Speech Sparks BJP’s “Core Issues” Jab

The Lok Sabha, India’s lower house of parliament, witnessed a fiery exchange on July 20th when Congress MP Rajeev Gowda delivered a powerful speech on the ongoing crisis in Manipur. Gowda, known for his sharp and insightful contributions, brought to the fore the plight of the people suffering amidst the violence.

Gowda’s Speech: A Call for Action

Gowda’s speech, which centered around the plight of a young woman who was allegedly stripped and paraded naked, resonated deeply with the nation. He lamented the lack of adequate action by the government, urging the Prime Minister to break his silence. “Why are you silent?” he questioned, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.

His speech, however, went beyond the immediate crisis in Manipur. He directly criticized the BJP government, pointing towards the rising intolerance and the erosion of fundamental rights under their tenure. This pointed critique of the government’s inaction and its wider implications triggered a response from the ruling party.

BJP’s Counterattack: A Focus on “Core Issues”

The BJP, in its defense, chose to deflect the criticism by emphasizing their “core issues.” BJP MP Ramesh Bidhuri, known for his inflammatory rhetoric, responded with a jab at the Congress, claiming they were “diverting attention” from the “core issues” facing the nation. He further accused the Congress of “playing politics” with the Manipur crisis.

Data Points: A Reality Check

While the BJP attempts to shift focus, the ground reality paints a different picture. The state of Manipur has witnessed over 150 deaths since the violence erupted in May, with thousands displaced and their lives shattered.

The National Crime Records Bureau data for 2021, the most recent available, reveals a stark reality: Manipur ranks third in the country for crime against women, highlighting a deep-seated issue of systemic failure in safeguarding women’s rights.

Conclusion: Beyond Rhetoric, Action is Needed

The verbal sparring between the Congress and the BJP in Parliament, while politically significant, fails to address the urgent humanitarian crisis unfolding in Manipur. The focus should shift away from political point-scoring and towards concrete action to alleviate the suffering of the people.

Gowda’s powerful speech, though met with a counter-narrative by the BJP, serves as a critical reminder of the need for decisive action to restore peace, justice, and security in the state.

Beyond rhetoric, action is the only solution.