A State in Crisis

Manipur, a state rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, now finds itself in a state of turmoil and despair. The ongoing crisis, which has now stretched to an agonizing 15 months, has plunged the state into chaos, exposing the inadequacies of both the state and central governments. The once-proud people of Manipur are grappling with a situation that has rendered them refugees in their own land, with over 60,000 individuals displaced and living in deplorable conditions. As the crisis deepens, the question arises: has Manipur become a failed state?
The origins of the current crisis are multifaceted, rooted in ethnic tensions, political manoeuvring, and a breakdown of trust between communities and the government. The situation has been further exacerbated by the deteriorating road conditions across the state, particularly on the inter-district state highways and inter-village roads. These roads, once vital lifelines connecting communities, have become symbols of the state’s collapse. Pothole-ridden, poorly maintained, and in some cases, virtually impassable, these roads are a stark reminder of the government’s failure to provide even the most basic infrastructure.
The state government, led by Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, has appeared increasingly helpless in the face of this growing crisis. Despite numerous appeals for calm and assurances that the situation is under control, the reality on the ground tells a different story. The recent sixth session of the Manipur State Assembly, which many hoped would bring some resolution to the crisis, ended in disappointment. The absence of 10 MLAs from the Kuki-Zo community during the session was a glaring indicator of the deep divisions that continue to plague the state. Their non-attendance was not just a political statement; it was a clear signal that trust in the state’s leadership has eroded beyond repair.
Perhaps the most heart-wrenching aspect of this ongoing crisis is the displacement of over 60,000 people, who now live as refugees within their own state. These individuals, many of whom belong to the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities, have been forced to flee their homes due to violence, fear, and insecurity. They now reside in temporary shelters, often lacking basic amenities such as clean water, sanitation, and healthcare. The psychological toll of such displacement, particularly on women and children, cannot be overstated.
The central government, which has the power and resources to intervene decisively, has been conspicuously absent. While some efforts have been made to restore order, they have been piecemeal at best, failing to address the root causes of the crisis. The lack of a comprehensive and effective response from the central government has left many in Manipur feeling abandoned and forgotten. The state’s plea for help seems to have fallen on deaf ears in New Delhi, where other political concerns appear to take precedence.
As the crisis drags on, the infrastructure in Manipur has continued to deteriorate, particularly the state’s roads. The inter-district state highways and inter-village roads, which are essential for the movement of goods, people, and services, are in a deplorable state. The poor condition of these roads not only hampers economic activity but also exacerbates the humanitarian crisis. With roads in such a dire state, access to relief materials, medical aid, and other essential services has become increasingly difficult.
The deteriorating road conditions are also a reflection of the broader governance crisis in Manipur. The state’s inability to maintain its infrastructure is indicative of a government that is overwhelmed, under-resourced, and incapable of meeting the needs of its people. This failure is not just a logistical issue; it is a matter of life and death for those who rely on these roads to access food, water, and medical care.
The recent sixth session of the Manipur State Assembly was seen by many as a critical moment—a chance for the state’s political leaders to come together and chart a path out of the crisis. However, the session ended in disarray, with little to show in terms of tangible solutions. The absence of 10 MLAs from the Kuki-Zo community was a stark reminder of the deep divisions that continue to haunt the state. Their decision to boycott the session was a clear message that they have lost faith in the state’s ability to protect their interests and ensure their safety.
This failure to resolve the crisis through the democratic process is a troubling sign of a government that has lost its way. The state assembly, which should be a forum for debate, discussion, and resolution, has instead become a symbol of the state’s paralysis. Without a concerted effort to bridge the divides and restore trust, the situation in Manipur is likely to deteriorate further.
The people of Manipur cannot wait any longer. The state and central governments must act now, with urgency and determination, to address the crisis. This begins with a comprehensive peace process that involves all stakeholders, including the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities, as well as other ethnic groups in the state. There must be a concerted effort to rebuild trust, restore law and order, and address the underlying issues that have fueled the violence and displacement.
Manipur stands at a crossroads. The choices made in the coming weeks and months will determine whether the state can emerge from this crisis or whether it will continue its downward spiral into becoming a failed state.