Manipur: MPCC criticizes Centre, demands freedom of movement for citizens
Manipur: MPCC criticizes Centre, demands freedom of movement for citizens
Digital Desk: The Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) has expressed severe concern about the continuous absence of free movement for individuals across the state since May 3, 2023, blaming both the state and the Union governments of failing to respect constitutional rights.
Speaking at a press conference at Congress Bhavan in Imphal on Monday, AICC member and senior MPCC spokesperson Ningombam Bupenda Meitei strongly condemned a recent incident in which a Manipur State Transport Corporation bus carrying media personnel was reportedly stopped on its way to Ukhrul for the Shirui Lily Festival.
Furthermore, the central forces allegedly ordered the crew to conceal the phrase "Manipur" on the bus and told them not to display the state's name, which Meitei deemed a clear infringement of constitutional rights.
"Every citizen has the fundamental right to move freely under Article 19 of the Constitution," Meitei told the press.
"We urge the Union Government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the Governor of Manipur, especially since the state is under President's Rule, to uphold the Constitution and ensure free movement for all," he added to his statement.
He further blasted the "double engine" administration, claiming that even under President's Rule, the situation has deteriorated to the point that state transport vehicles cannot run freely.
"If a government bus cannot travel freely within its state, how can an ordinary citizen feel safe?" he questioned, seeking immediate action from the central leadership to restore constitutional liberties in Manipur.
