Cong teachers’ wing stages dharna, demands peace in Manipur

The Indian National Teachers’ Congress (INTEC) organised a peaceful dharna at the Arts Faculty, North Campus, University of Delhi, on Wednesday to express solidarity with the people of Manipur and urge the Government of India to take immediate and decisive action to address the ongoing crisis in the state.

The demonstration was aimed at highlighting the deepening unrest in Manipur, where violent clashes between ethnic communities have led to widespread displacement, loss of lives and destruction of infrastructure. Despite various efforts, peace remains elusive, and normalcy has not been restored.

INTEC members, including educators, students and activists, gathered to draw attention to the urgent need for a comprehensive solution to the situation.

In a letter sent to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the INTEC called on the Ministry of Home Affairs to take swift and effective action to address the crisis. The letter emphasised the need for a meaningful dialogue that includes all parties involved, to establish an inclusive platform for peaceful negotiations. It also stressed the importance of strengthening security measures to ensure the safety of all communities in Manipur, particularly those who have been affected by the violence.

It further urged the government to mobilise humanitarian aid to support the displaced and those most affected by the conflict. “There is an immediate need for resources to help those who have lost everything. The people of Manipur need assistance to rebuild their lives,” said Pankaj Garg, Chairman of INTEC.

Additionally, the letter emphasised the importance of implementing confidence-building measures to promote trust and mutual respect among various communities in the region.

Prof Garg noted, “Restoring peace in Manipur requires not only security measures but also efforts to rebuild the social fabric of the state. It’s crucial that all communities feel heard and respected.”

The letter also called for swift justice against those responsible for the violence, urging the government to uphold the rule of law and ensure that those who incite or commit violence are held accountable.

Garg spoke passionately about the situation, saying, “Manipur has long been a land of rich cultural diversity and harmony. What is happening now is a tragic disruption of its social fabric. The people of Manipur have endured immense suffering, and it is our collective responsibility to work towards restoring peace and stability in the state.”

He added that, as educators, INTEC firmly believes that the restoration of peace in Manipur is critical for the unity and integrity of the nation.