The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi, addressed queries regarding the recent remarks made by US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, concerning the situation in Manipur. Bagchi stated that foreign diplomats generally refrain from commenting on internal developments in India.
During the regular media briefing on Thursday, Bagchi mentioned that government agencies are actively working towards peace in the border state of Manipur. While he hadn’t seen the specific comments by the US Ambassador, Bagchi acknowledged the importance of peace in the region and highlighted the efforts of Indian agencies, security forces, and local government in addressing the situation. He also noted that foreign diplomats typically avoid commenting on internal developments in India and expressed the need to review the remarks in question before making further comments.
Garcetti had made comments on Manipur during a press conference in Kolkata, stating that peace is crucial for progress and collaboration in the Northeast region. He offered US assistance if requested to address the situation in Manipur, acknowledging that violence in Manipur is an “Indian matter” and expressing prayers for peace in the region.
In response to a query about Kurt Campbell’s statement regarding challenges between the US and India, Bagchi stated that it reflects the candid and deep relations between the two countries. Campbell, the US National Security Council Coordinator for Indo-Pacific, had highlighted that both India and the US have their own challenges, and the US should not lecture any other country on democracy and human rights.
Bagchi emphasized that the relations between India and the US allow for frank discussions on various issues, acknowledging that both countries have areas where they can collaborate and work together.
The situation in Manipur has seen ethnic violence following a rally organized by the All Tribal Students Union of Manipur (ATSUM) on May 3. The Indian government is actively engaged in efforts to restore peace and stability in the region.
