The Manipur Congress demanded an independent judicial probe into alleged irregularities in the allocation and utilization of relief funds intended for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the Moirang assembly segment of Bishnupur district. The accusations, leveled by state Congress chief spokesperson Hareshwar Goshwami, have sparked a political firestorm amid Manipur’s ongoing ethnic crisis, which has left over 260 dead and thousands homeless since May 2023.

Goshwami revealed that Right to Information (RTI) findings uncovered “serious irregularities” in the management of funds meant for one-time financial assistance and essential relief materials for IDPs in Moirang. “The government sanctioned lakhs of rupees, but expenditure records show inflated figures and questionable entries that don’t align with ground realities,” he stated, accusing authorities of mismanagement. He further alleged that the Moirang MLA from the National People’s Party (NPP) misrepresented facts, claiming the distribution of aid was riddled with discrepancies.

The Congress spokesperson raised concerns about potential corruption, stating, “RTI findings suggest possible diversion of funds, betraying the vulnerable IDPs who rely on this aid.” He urged the authorities to initiate a judicial probe and file a suo motu case against the MLA and others responsible for the alleged mismanagement. The call for accountability comes at a time when thousands of displaced people, primarily from the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, continue to languish in relief camps across Manipur.

Also Read: Trump Hosts Poland’s Nawrocki for Key Ukraine, Defense Talks

The state’s political landscape adds complexity to the issue. Following Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s resignation, the Centre imposed President’s Rule, placing the state assembly, set to function until 2027, under suspended animation. The Congress’s allegations highlight ongoing governance challenges, with the party positioning itself as a defender of the displaced. As pressure mounts for transparency, the demand for a probe could reshape public trust and political dynamics in Manipur’s fragile recovery process.

Also Read: Fugitive AAP MLA Denies Firing, Alleges Fake Encounter Plot