In a striking turn of events, the one-day Assembly sitting in Manipur on Tuesday, which lasted a mere 13 minutes, has drawn severe criticism from senior political leader O Joy.
The assembly session's failure to address the ongoing Manipur crisis has prompted Joy to denounce the proceedings as a stain on Manipur's reputation and one of the most disheartening parliamentary sessions in history.
Joy, an experienced political figure, demanded that the governor reject and disapprove of the proceedings, alleging a violation of constitutional and parliamentary norms.
Speaking at his residence in Kakwa in Imphal West, Joy highlighted several irregularities in the assembly's approach. He pointed out that the inclusion of the Business Advisory Committee Report in the agenda was an unprecedented move.
Additionally, he emphasised the absence of an agenda titled "Business (if any)" to accommodate discussions beyond the listed business items.
Expressing concern over the ongoing turmoil, the loss of innocent lives, internal displacement, and the continuous attack by narco-terrorists, Joy asked why the assembly failed to deliberate on these crucial matters.
The lack of discourse on the ongoing unrest within the state baffled Joy, who questioned the ruling MLAs' alignment with the people of Manipur versus the directives of the BJP high command.
He passionately argued that, as representatives of the people, the MLAs hold the responsibility to engage in meaningful discussions within the assembly, echoing the long-standing demand of the citizens.
Joy also likened the situation in the Manipur Assembly to the alleged suppression of the voices of Manipur MPs in the Parliament by the central government.
Responding to claims by certain ministers that opposition disruptions led to the session's turmoil, Joy countered by asserting that the ruling MLAs, including the Chief Minister, appeared to flee from addressing Manipur's pressing issues.
He challenged the purpose of the Assembly, the chief minister, and the MLAs themselves if they were unwilling to deliberate on the burning concerns that affect Manipur.
The press briefing was also attended by former ministers RK Anand and L Jayanatakumar who are also legal experts.
