A Ray of Hope in Manipur’s Fight Against Extortion, But Can It End?

The recent warning issued by the Manipur police against extortionists is a positive development, albeit a long-overdue one. For far too long, traders, professionals, and ordinary citizens have suffered under the weight of extortion demands, all levied in the name of “protection” or “crisis management.” These demands have not only stifled economic activities but also forced professionals and entrepreneurs to flee the state in fear. However, despite the encouraging signs of action from the authorities, a larger question looms: can Manipur truly be freed from the scourge of extortion?
The state has been in crisis for over a year and a half, with multiple issues compounding the general sense of instability. This atmosphere of uncertainty has created fertile ground for extortionist groups to thrive. Various organizations—some new and others long-established—have emerged, claiming to protect the state’s interests. What may have started as movements aimed at safeguarding Manipur’s identity and well-being have now spiraled into opportunities for extortion. These groups have weaponized the crisis to exert pressure on businesses, professionals, and even individuals, demanding payments under the guise of protection.
The primary victims of this extortion racket are the businesses and professionals who once thrived in the state’s commercial hubs, such as Paona and Thangal Bazar in Imphal. Traders, who have long been the backbone of Manipur’s economy, are being forced to shut their doors due to the relentless demands of extortionists. Professionals, including doctors, engineers, and private practitioners, are also fleeing the state in search of safety, unwilling to live under constant threat. The situation has reached a point where operating a business or practicing a profession in Manipur feels like a gamble, one where the stakes are often too high for many to bear.
The slow and, at times, apathetic response from law enforcement has worsened the situation. Numerous reports suggest that the police, either through inaction or complicity, have turned a blind eye to these criminal activities. The absence of timely intervention from authorities has allowed extortionists to operate with impunity, emboldening their actions and widening their influence across the state. This lack of trust in the police has made it even more difficult for businesses to continue their operations, leaving Manipur’s economy in a precarious position. If these trends continue unchecked, the long-term damage to the state’s economy could be severe, potentially leading to a prolonged period of stagnation or decline.
Despite this bleak scenario, there is a glimmer of hope. The recent police warning against extortionists marks the first significant step in addressing the problem. It sends a message that the state government is finally recognizing the gravity of the issue and is willing to take action. However, it is essential to note that mere warnings will not be enough. What is needed now is a sustained and coordinated effort to dismantle the extortion networks that have entrenched themselves in the state’s socio-economic landscape.
The rise of these extortionist groups can be traced back to the fragile socio-political environment in Manipur. The prolonged crisis has created a vacuum of governance, allowing opportunistic groups to step in and take advantage of the instability. These groups often masquerade as protectors of the state’s interests, but in reality, they operate as criminal syndicates, extorting money from the very people they claim to protect. To truly free Manipur from the grip of extortion, the government and law enforcement agencies must focus on dismantling these groups and restoring the rule of law.
While the police’s renewed commitment is a promising sign, the bigger challenge lies in addressing the underlying factors that have allowed extortion to flourish. This will require more than just law enforcement; it will demand a long-term strategy aimed at restoring economic opportunities, rebuilding public trust in the government, and creating an environment where businesses and individuals feel secure. The socio-economic conditions that have contributed to the rise of extortion need to be addressed, particularly the lack of viable employment and business opportunities that force many to turn to illegal activities for survival.
At the same time, civil society must play an active role in combating extortion. Business associations, community leaders, and professional groups should collaborate with law enforcement to create a united front against extortion.
The fight against extortion in Manipur is far from over. While the recent actions of the police offer hope, much more needs to be done to rid the state of this menace. It will take a concerted effort from all stakeholders—government, law enforcement, civil society, and the business community—to create a safe and prosperous Manipur. With the right measures in place, it is possible to envision a future where the state can thrive once again, free from the fear and corruption that have held it back for so long.