TMC calls for Parliamentary debate on Manipur violence, economic issues, and Aparajita Bill

The Trinamool Congress has called for a detailed parliamentary debate on the ongoing violence in Manipur and urged the central government to intervene immediately. The call for intervention follows ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur, which has resulted in over 250 deaths and left thousands displaced since the violence began in May 2023. The conflict has primarily involved the Meitei and Kuki communities and escalated after a series of attacks and retaliations, with incidents such as the November 11 encounter in Jiribam district, where six people—including three women and three children—were killed. The situation remains tense, with sporadic clashes and continued unrest in various parts of the state.

During a national executive meeting led by Trinamool Congress supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, the party emphasized the need for parliamentary discussion to address the crisis in Manipur. Trinamool leaders have insisted that the government must take immediate action to restore peace and order in the region. A senior leader from the party stated, “We will demand answers from the government regarding the ongoing violence in Manipur. We want a debate and the center’s intervention is necessary.” The party has also stated that its focus will be on discussion, not disruption, during the winter session of Parliament.

In addition to the Manipur violence, Trinamool Congress plans to raise a host of pressing economic issues. The party has highlighted concerns over rising inflation and skyrocketing food prices, which are putting additional strain on the public. Furthermore, Trinamool MPs will raise the issue of withheld funds for welfare schemes, particularly the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) and the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), which have faced delays or blocks in fund transfers to West Bengal. The party has accused the central government of holding back resources that are essential for the implementation of these schemes in the state.

Another issue that Trinamool Congress plans to raise in Parliament is the ongoing controversy surrounding the Adani Group, particularly regarding allegations of corporate malpractice. While the party will seek clarity on the issue, it has made it clear that it does not intend to disrupt Parliament solely over the Adani matter. According to the Trinamool leadership, focusing exclusively on the Adani issue could divert attention from the more urgent matters, such as the Manipur violence and economic challenges, including the financial difficulties faced by the states due to delayed funds.

Trinamool Congress has also renewed its call for the swift implementation of the 'Aparajita Women and Children Bill,' which was passed by the West Bengal Legislative Assembly in September 2024. The bill proposes stricter legal provisions for addressing sexual offenses, including the death penalty for offenders whose actions result in the death or permanent disability of victims. The bill also aims to establish a more robust legal framework for the protection of women and children against violence and exploitation. The party has made it clear that it will push for the adoption of similar legal measures at the national level.

To highlight the urgency of the Aparajita Bill, Trinamool Congress will organize a statewide protest on November 30, followed by a sit-in protest on December 1. A delegation of five female legislators and ten female MPs from the party will meet the President of India after December 10 to demand the immediate implementation of the bill. The party considers this bill to be a crucial step toward ensuring stronger protection for women and children in India, particularly in light of increasing concerns over sexual violence.