New Delhi [India], September 14 : Congress MP and Assam Congress chief Gaurav Gogoi on Sunday termed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Manipur as "unfortunate", alleging that PM Modi went there to improve his image rather than solve people's problems.
He alleged further that PM Modi's visit rubbed salt on the wounds of people instead of applying ointment.
"PM Modi's visit to Manipur is very unfortunate. He just goes there to improve his image rather than solve people's problems. The way he only focuses on his image, he rubs salt on the wounds of people instead of applying ointment," Gogoi told reporters.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Saturday, during his first visit to Manipur post the violence in 2023, appealed to various ethnic groups in Manipur to shun violence and work towards restoring peace in the State. He stated that a new dawn of "hope and confidence" is emerging in the northeastern State.
Addressing a public meeting in Churachanpur, he assured the public of support from the Centre.
"I appeal to all the groups to move on the path of peace to fulfil their dreams and secure their children's future. Today, I promise that I stand by your side. The Indian government stands with the people of Manipur," PM Modi said.
Arriving at Imphal airport later on Saturday, the Prime Minister said, "Manipur has always been a land of hope, but unfortunately, it went through a difficult phase of violence. I met with the affected people who are living in camps. After an interaction with them, I can say "ummeed aur vishwas ki nayi subah Manipur mein dastak de rahi hai" (A new dawn of hope and confidence is knocking on the doors of Manipur)."
PM Modi has expressed satisfaction over recent peace agreements with several ethnic groups in the state.