Manipur Assembly Session: A Defining Moment for Crisis Resolution

As the Manipur Legislative Assembly convenes for its winter session tomorrow, the state stands at a crossroads. The prolonged ethnic conflict has left thousands displaced, communities fractured, and trust in governance shaken. With expectations running high, this session must serve as a platform for real solutions rather than political theatrics. Among the key matters demanding urgent attention are the promised white paper on the core issue, the role of the policy-making committee, the rehabilitation of conflict victims, and the resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs). The Assembly must not squander this opportunity to address these fundamental concerns with clarity and commitment.
One of the most anticipated aspects of the session is the government’s proposed white paper on the core issue. However, questions loom over whether this document will provide genuine insight into the state’s policies or merely serve as a rhetorical exercise. If the government is serious about rebuilding public confidence, the white paper must go beyond vague assertions and offer a concrete assessment of the crisis—its origins, the response mechanisms adopted, and a roadmap for peace. It must address the gaps in governance that allowed the situation to spiral out of control and provide accountability for the failures that have prolonged the suffering of thousands.
Simply put, a white paper without accountability and a clear strategy is meaningless. It must not be a mere justification of past actions but a forward-looking document that outlines tangible steps toward conflict resolution. Anything less will only deepen public skepticism.
The formation of a policy-making committee was announced with much fanfare, yet its actual impact remains questionable. Despite months of crisis, there is little evidence to suggest that this committee has played a decisive role in shaping policies to address the ongoing conflict. The Assembly must clarify its mandate, powers, and the extent of its influence on governance.
If this committee is to be more than just a bureaucratic formality, it must actively engage with stakeholders, including community leaders, civil society organizations, and conflict-affected groups. It should be tasked with developing a comprehensive conflict resolution framework that includes security measures, rehabilitation policies, and economic revival plans. Moreover, the committee’s deliberations should be made public to ensure transparency and accountability.
The role of village volunteers in defending their communities amid state inaction cannot be ignored. These individuals stepped up when the government failed to provide security, often putting their lives at risk. However, instead of recognizing their contributions, many continue to face legal uncertainty, with some even branded as troublemakers.
The Assembly must introduce and pass a bill that provides legal protection and recognition to these volunteers. Such legislation should include provisions for their rehabilitation, compensation for those injured or killed in the conflict, and social reintegration measures. Failure to do so will send a dangerous message—that those who defended their homes and communities will be abandoned once their role is no longer politically convenient.
Perhaps the most pressing issue is the fate of internally displaced persons. Despite repeated assurances from the government, tens of thousands remain in relief camps, with no clear timeline for their return home. The situation is unsustainable; prolonged displacement only exacerbates economic instability and social unrest.
The Assembly must prioritize a comprehensive resettlement plan that goes beyond temporary relief. This means ensuring security guarantees, rebuilding destroyed homes and infrastructure, and providing economic support for displaced families to rebuild their lives. Resettlement must not be dictated by political considerations but by the fundamental rights of citizens to return to their land safely.
The Manipur government has repeatedly promised action, but promises alone are no longer enough. This Assembly session must mark a turning point where words translate into concrete policies. The people of Manipur do not need another round of political posturing—they need real, enforceable solutions.
The government must use this session to demonstrate that it has the political will to resolve the crisis. Anything less will not only betray the suffering of thousands but will also deepen the state’s crisis, both in governance and credibility. The question remains: will the Assembly rise to the occasion, or will it once again reduce itself to a mere stage for hollow debates? The answer will define Manipur’s future.