Congress Leader Vikrant Bhuria Slams PM Modi for Ignoring Violence-Hit Manipur, Choosing Lion Safari Instead
On Monday, Congress leader Dr. Vikrant Bhuria sharply criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for prioritizing a lion safari at Gujarat’s Gir Wildlife Sanctuary over addressing the escalating violence in Manipur. Bhuria’s remarks come as the PM embarked on a three-day visit to his home state on World Wildlife Day, opting for a wildlife outing instead of visiting the conflict-ridden northeastern state.
PM Modi’s Lion Safari Sparks Controversy
During a press interaction at the Congress party headquarters in Delhi, Bhuria took a dig at Modi, saying, “PM ko toh sirf paltu sher acha lagta hai, asli sheron ko wo khan milne nahi jate” (The PM only seems to like pet lions; he does not go to meet real lions). The statement was a pointed jab at Modi’s decision to spend time at the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary in Junagadh, Gujarat, while Manipur continues to grapple with unrest. Bhuria emphasized that the Prime Minister has “completely ignored” the plight of thousands of Adivasis affected by violence in Manipur.
Manipur Violence: Adivasis Left in the Lurch
Bhuria highlighted the worsening situation in Manipur, where ethnic clashes and violence have displaced countless tribal families. He questioned the government’s commitment to justice, asking, “Where will these people seek justice when those in power abandon them?” The Congress leader also called out the Manipur Governor and the President of India for their apparent inaction, accusing them of neglecting the concerns of the state’s Adivasi population.
BJP Government Accused of Displacing Tribals
The Adivasi Congress leader didn’t stop at Manipur. He alleged that the BJP-led central government is systematically displacing tribal communities from their lands across India. Drawing attention to the disproportionate incarceration rates of Adivasis, Bhuria cited Madhya Pradesh as an example, claiming that 60% of the state’s prison population comprises tribal individuals. “Adivasis constitute the highest number of people in India’s jails,” he asserted, accusing the government of targeting and marginalizing tribal populations.