Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) President K. Meghachandra has accused the state government of orchestrating and exacerbating the ongoing crisis in Manipur. Addressing reporters at Congress Bhavan, Imphal, Meghachandra claimed the prolonged unrest, which began on May 3, 2023, has been fueled by deliberate actions of the state government.

Citing evidence, Meghachandra alleged financial irregularities involving payments to Suspension of Operations (SoO) groups. He revealed that the state government’s Home Department paid Rs. 6.27 crore to members of the Hmar People’s Democratic Convention (HPDC) in July 2024. The payment, made through Cheque No. 226200 dated July 9, 2024, was credited to an HDFC account held by HPDC members Lalneikung and Joshua.

These revelations contradict resolutions passed by the state government earlier in the year. Meghachandra pointed out that on January 21, 2024, BJP legislators resolved to withdraw the SoO agreement with Zo-Kuki armed groups. Similarly, on February 29, 2024, the Manipur Legislative Assembly urged the Union Government to abrogate the SoO pact. Despite these decisions, the financial transaction was carried out.

“This issue was raised as a starred question in the assembly, but the Leader of the House denied such a transaction occurred. Upon further investigation, I gathered detailed evidence proving that the Chief Minister misled the assembly,” Meghachandra asserted.

He also referred to a similar instance from 2021-22, where Rs. 27.38 crore was allegedly paid to Kuki-Zo armed groups under the Umbrella Scheme for Modernization of Police Forces, violating government procedures. Meghachandra highlighted that the transaction was flagged in the Accountant General of India’s report but no action was taken.

“These payments have deepened the crisis in Manipur, and the government must be held accountable,” Meghachandra stated, calling for a thorough investigation and greater transparency.