Violence-affected Manipur's budget sees cuts in almost all sectors, opposition attacks double-engine government

NEW DELHI: The opposition launched a scathing attack on the central and state "double-engine" government over the budget of violence-affected Manipur. Opposition members argued that Manipur, which has been reeling from ethnic violence and unrest for the past 21 months, has seen budget cuts in almost all sectors. They contended that the budget should have been significantly increased for reconstruction and rehabilitation, not reduced.

The opposition questioned the government’s indifference toward Manipur’s plight. For instance, Sanjay Singh highlighted that Manipur’s budget rose marginally from 34,899 crore rupees in 2024-25 to 35,103 crore rupees in 2025-26—a figure he called negligible compared to the destruction caused by violence. He termed it ironic and said that despite homes being burnt and people displaced, neither the central nor state government has provided adequate assistance. R. Girirajan accused the government of mere pretense in the name of Manipur, asserting that the wounds of its people will never heal.

The opposition also targeted the "double-engine" government slogan. Girirajan asked how much this government contributes to the GDP, while Sulata Deo sarcastically questioned whether the government considers Manipur a part of India. Manoj Kumar Jha remarked that had the PM visited Manipur earlier, the situation might not have worsened so drastically. He also suggested that an all-party delegation should visit the state to understand and address the people’s suffering.

On the other hand, Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy challenged the opposition to prove their allegations or apologize to the House. However, the opposition emphasized that instead of cuts, Manipur’s budget should have been bolstered with substantial resources for relief and rebuilding, especially given the state’s dire need for peace and recovery.

This debate underscores the opposition’s contention that the government’s intentions and priorities are questionable regarding Manipur’s budget, particularly at a time when the state desperately needs regeneration and peace.

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