News Reporter
Imphal, January 10, 2024: In a recent turn of events, the Manipur government has granted permission for Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' in the state. The approval, however, comes with certain limitations, allowing only a restricted number of participants.
Earlier, the Congress party had asserted that the Manipur government had initially denied permission to commence the yatra from the Palace Ground in Imphal. KC Venugopal, the organization general secretary of Congress, informed the media of the alleged refusal, announcing the party's decision to identify an alternative location within Imphal to kickstart the yatra.
Chief Minister N Biren Singh Cites Law and Order Concerns
Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee president and senior Congress MLA K Meghachandra, along with a delegation of party leaders, met Chief Minister N Biren Singh to discuss the permission for the yatra at his office complex-cum-bungalow on Wednesday morning. The Chief Minister reportedly informed them that due to the prevailing law and order situation in the state, his government couldn't grant permission for the yatra's commencement from Hatta Kangjeibung in Imphal East district.
Venue Change to Khongjom in Thoubal District
Despite the government's denial, Meghachandra expressed disappointment but announced a change in the yatra's venue to a private location at Khongjom in the Thoubal district. He referred to the government's response as "very unfortunate" and highlighted the decision to shift the venue in response to the declined permission for the original ground.
"We met Manipur CM N Biren Singh in connection with the permission of the venue to organize Bharat Jodo Nyaya Yatra. But CM has declined to permit Hatta Kangjeibung in Imphal East district. Unfortunately, the government has declined the permission. The government declined the venue ground," stated Meghachandra.
The altered venue at Khongjom signifies the Congress party's determination to proceed with the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, emphasizing the resilience and adaptability of political strategies amidst evolving circumstances. As the yatra gains momentum, it becomes a focal point in the ongoing political dynamics within Manipur.*