Manipur's 'paribartan' spearhead

IMPHAL: Leading the Trinamool Congress in Manipur is a woman walking in Didi’s footsteps, from her battle-cry for change to her simple ways. In her cotton salwar-kameez, state Trinamool chief Kim Gangte calls out for ‘paribartan’ (change) and deliverance from the “long, dark years under this corrupt government”, just like Mamata Banerjee did in Bengal.

Gangte matches her in rhetoric and also ensures every poll dais is carpeted green. From hoisting Trinamool flags to the slogan ‘Ma, maati, manush’ it’s all there. Only, it’s in Meitei.

Gangte pledges clean governance, development of all areas, end to ethnic tensions and a promise to get insurgent groups to the negotiating table.

Mamata's target in Bengal was CPM. Gangte tears into the Congress that has ruled Manipur for 10 years. She attacks Ibobi Singh's government for corruption and nepotism. “People of Bengal voted for change. People of Manipur should also do so,” she says.

Speakers at her rallies remind people Didi is a powerful presence in Delhi. She can deliver for Manipur. They explain the party symbol: It stands for a party that's down-to-earth . “People have tried all other parties. All have failed them. We’re the only ones left,” Gangte said.