IMPHAL: After dramatic events, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi reached Churachandpur, a riot-hit area of Manipur. After the visit, Rahul tweeted that it was unfortunate that he was stopped and that peace should be restored in Manipur.
Earlier, Rahul Gandhi's convoy, which had come to visit the riot-affected areas, was stopped by the Manipur police at Bishnupur. After waiting for two hours, Rahul returned to Imphal and later reached Churachandpur by helicopter.
'I came to listen to all my brothers and sisters of Manipur. People of all communities are being very welcoming and loving. It’s very unfortunate that the government is stopping me. Manipur needs healing. Peace has to be our only priority,' Rahul tweeted.
I came to listen to all my brothers and sisters of Manipur.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) June 29, 2023
People of all communities are being very welcoming and loving. It’s very unfortunate that the government is stopping me.
Manipur needs healing. Peace has to be our only priority. pic.twitter.com/WXsnOxFLIa
Police clarified that Rahul's convoy was stopped citing security issues. Police informed that the situation is untenable and in many places people from both sides are stationed with weapons. However, Police gave permission for the travel when Rahul stated that he would continue the journey.
Meanwhile, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge alleged that it was Manipur Chief Minister who intervened and stopped Rahul. BJP criticized Rahul's visit to Manipur. BJP leader Sabith Patra said that it was an irresponsible approach from Rahul's side. He also accused the Congress of paving the way for the current situation in Manipur.