In a remarkable display of solidarity, renowned African-American actress and singer, Mary Millben, stepped forward on 10th August to lend her support to Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the Manipur issue. Her endorsement followed PM Modi’s address in the Parliament, where he addressed a no-confidence motion against his government.
Taking to her official Twitter account, Mary Millben expressed her unwavering faith in India’s leader. She emphasized that the Opposition’s chants lacked substance and highlighted that the truth would inevitably liberate people. Millben’s tweet underscored her confidence in PM Modi and her prayers for his endeavours. She invoked the words of the late American civil rights movement leader, Martin Luther King Jr., referencing his quote ‘let freedom ring.’
In a tweet, Mary Millben proclaimed, “The truth: India has confidence in its leader. The mothers, daughters, and women of #Manipur, India will receive justice. And #PMModi will always fight for your freedom. The truth: to associate with a party that dishonours cultural legacy, denies children the right to sing the anthem of its country, and degrades one’s country abroad, this is not leadership. This is unprincipled.”
Millben’s endorsement of PM Modi is not new, as she had the privilege of meeting the Prime Minister during his visit to the United States in June. During an event at the Ronald Reagan Building in Washington DC, where PM Modi addressed the Indian community, Mary Millben captivated the audience by singing India’s national anthem, “Jana Gana Mana.” Following her performance, she greeted PM Modi and sought his blessings by touching his feet.
PM Modi’s response to the no-confidence motion showcased his unwavering commitment to restoring peace in Manipur. He pledged to ensure the strictest punishment for individuals involved in crimes against women and assured the people of Manipur that tranquillity would be reestablished. He unequivocally stated, “Both the state and central governments are doing everything possible to ensure that the accused get the strictest punishment. I want to assure the people that peace will be restored in Manipur in the coming time.”
Furthermore, PM Modi extended his support to the women and daughters of Manipur, asserting that the entire country stands with them. Despite his earnest overtures, the Opposition MPs staged a walkout from the Lok Sabha during his speech. The Prime Minister lamented the lack of courage and intention on the part of the Opposition to engage in a discussion about the Manipur issue. He referenced a letter from the Home Minister, Amit Shah, inviting them to participate in a discussion but noted their reluctance to do so.
Mary Millben’s vocal support for PM Modi, especially on an issue as critical as the Manipur crisis, underscores the global resonance of India’s leadership and the collective pursuit of justice and stability. In this alliance of voices, the convergence of values and aspirations reaches across borders and cultures, reinforcing the message that solidarity knows no boundaries.
News Mania Desk / Agnibeena Ghosh 11th August 2023
