The introduction of three landmark Bills- Protection of Manipur Peoples Bill 2015, Manipur Land Revenue & Land Reforms (seventh amendment) Bill 2015, and Manipur Shops & Establishment (second amendment) Bill 2015, at the first sitting of the special session of the state legislative assembly heralds the beginning of an era that is definitely bound to change the state in every aspect, be it culturally, socially or economically. It goes without saying that the bills so introduced have been passed by the house after the perfunctory discussion and debate during the second sitting of the special assembly session today. With this act, the state government has crossed over the first political hurdle, albeit at a considerable cost. This small success, however, should not be considered as the final solution to the problems staring in the face of the society. In fact, the long path ahead is strewn with more challenging and daunting tasks and hurdles and we, as a collective society has just started taking our first baby steps and is bound to stumble before we can finally find the right balance. First off, there is the immediate need for the different indigenous groups and communities to understand and work on the minor glitches to make it practical and acceptable to all stake holders which entail further discussions and deliberations among the representatives and leaders of such indigenous groups. Finding a common ground to work on which will address the concerns and contentions will pave the way to better cooperation and communication. The second and crucial phase would be the implementation of these bills. This will undoubtedly result in a lot of inconveniences and difficulties for a large number of people in the state. Utmost care must be taken to make the implementation as smooth and safe as far as possible for everyone. We need to exercise restraint and compassion during the whole process by extending support and chipping in with our bit. It also remains to be seen as to the efficacy of those who are authorized and appointed to actually implement the process as the whole matter will ultimately come down to how effectively the rules are being implemented and followed in carrying out their duties. If the past is any indication, one could not help but feel apprehensive about the whole affair. The state government must ensure that the public can put their trust in the workings else there is always the possibility of yet another dangerous social flare-up- one we cannot afford to bear or pay for. The emerging social scenario presents an excellent opportunity for introspection and reflection for everyone of us. What has happened need not be repeated again. Ever. Understanding, communication and timely action could have made a sea of difference, and perhaps avoided the bitterness, the unfortunate deaths and destructions. Let us hope, for our own good, that we all have learnt our bitter lessons.
