Fractured trust, persistent violence: Manipur’s longing remains unfulfilled

The longing for a return to normalcy has consumed people’s thoughts and hearts like an insatiable yearning. It has been a daunting journey, with two arduous months passing by, each second ticking by with a palpable fear that arose from the unsettling incident that unfolded in Churachandpur on May 3. As the dark cloud of a fabricated encounter in Manipur gradually dispersed in the twilight of former Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh’s tenure, the incumbent, N Biren Singh, proudly beats his chest, declaring he has erased ‘fake encounters’ in the state and now women can stay at their homes at night. But, now everyone came out on the streets.
Biren constantly blamed the then Congress government, of which he was a part, for the fake encounters and unrest in the guise of AFSPA. Moreover, the government constantly jubilates, claiming that the state has received numerous accolades for “taking Manipur forward.” Recently, the government proudly flaunted, claiming that the peace they brought attracted domestic and international tourists. With initiatives such as “Go to Hills,” it proclaims to bridge the divide between the hills and the valley, fostering unity and progress. The May 3 incident and its ensuing violence have turned everything into ashes.
People from all corners of the state find themselves unable to place their trust in the government and its leader, Mr. Biren Singh, as his prolonged inability to effectively control the situation raises doubts about his leadership. Even the recent visit of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, just a month ago, failed to bring the long-awaited peace that the people yearn for. The notion of “Go to Hills” or “Go to Valley” remains impractical and untenable amidst the persistent violence reported across the state.
In light of the dire circumstances, it is imperative for the government to seek the counsel of intellectuals and community leaders in order to forge a viable and lasting solution. The trust between different communities must be restored, as the suffering endured by the people over the past two months cannot be disregarded. The government must now demonstrate its capability to effectively quell the violence, recognizing that a permanent solution is imperative, as a mere temporary fix would only further undermine the entire state of Manipur.
The time for action is now. The government must acknowledge the gravity of the situation and work towards a comprehensive resolution that truly restores normalcy. The people of Manipur deserve a future free from fear and violence, where the yearning for normalcy can finally be fulfilled. It is through sincere and concerted efforts that the path to lasting peace and progress can be forged for the betterment of all.