Despite 14 months passing since the outbreak of ethnic violence, bloodshed continues in the Manipur. Attacks on the Meitei community by Kuki militants, including looting, arson, and murders, have destabilized the state. Hundreds of Meitei people are taking refuge in relief camps. This conflict has damaged the BJP’s image in Manipur. Now, direct intervention by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has become imperative.
Electoral Defeat and Political Loss
Due to the central government’s, particularly Prime Minister Modi’s, inactivity in Manipur, the BJP has suffered significant political damage. The Congress defeated the BJP in the Meitei-majority Inner Manipur seat and the Naga-Kuki-majority Outer Manipur seat. Voting data shows that the Meitei, Naga, and Kuki-Chin communities heavily supported Congress, which had won only five out of 60 seats in the 2022 assembly elections.
Security and Administrative Paralysis in Manipur
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) tried to manage the situation in Manipur through state security advisor Kuldeep Singh, but without success. Despite the deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and taking command of security arrangements, the violence has not abated.
Ethnic Conflict and Militant Activities
Murders and kidnappings of Meitei people by Kuki militants have further worsened the situation. This has led to the rise of Meitei extremist groups like Arambai Tenggol and Meitei Leepun. These groups have armed themselves by looting police armories. Ongoing violence between Meitei and Kuki militant groups has hindered the establishment of peace in the state.
Distrust in Security Forces
The Meitei community lacks trust in central security forces, while the Kuki-Chin people oppose the deployment of Manipur police. Central security forces are accused of siding with Kuki militants, which has exacerbated the law and order situation.
Illegal Immigration and Drug Trafficking
Illegal immigration of Kuki-Chin people from Myanmar has created demographic imbalances in Manipur’s hill districts. These illegal immigrants are destroying reserved forests for poppy cultivation. Drug trafficking is providing financial support to Kuki militant groups, enabling them to purchase weapons and recruit members.
Administrative and Economic Condition of the State
There is administrative paralysis and an atmosphere of fear in Manipur. Prices of goods have risen, healthcare services are in poor condition, and educational institutions are barely functioning. Thousands of youths have left the state in search of education and employment. Unemployment and economic instability are increasing.
Responsibility of the Central Government and Prime Minister’s Intervention
The people of Manipur feel that the central government has failed to address the ongoing crisis. Prime Minister Modi’s silence on the escalating violence and instability has deeply angered the populace. His perceived inactivity is viewed as a lack of concern for the state’s worsening situation, further fueling their resentment.
It is time for Prime Minister Modi to personally address the escalating crisis in Manipur by initiating immediate corrective action.
Conclusion
If the government works decisively, impartially, and transparently, militant groups can be neutralized and the violence ended. Updating the National Register of Citizens in Manipur is also important to identify Kuki-Chin illegal immigrants and repatriate them to Myanmar.
Prime Minister Modi must prioritize addressing the crisis in Manipur. His proactive involvement is crucial for restoring peace and stability in the region. Taking decisive action to quell the violence and address the underlying issues would not only stabilize Manipur but also enhance the overall security and unity of India. This significant step would demonstrate the government’s commitment to resolving internal conflicts and ensuring the well-being of all its citizens.
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