Do Manipuris deserve to celebrate the Republic Day of the Nation?

The nation is all set to celebrate the 76th Republic Day to commemorate the day that the Constitution of India came into effect in 1950. Manipur being an integral part of the country is also preparing to celebrate the day.
The Republic Day celebration is preparing across the globe, Indian embassies are hosting grand events, inviting Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) to partake in the celebrations. Among these, the Indian Embassy in Taiwan stands out, where preparations are reportedly in full swing. Indian citizens living abroad are expressing their enthusiasm for the occasion, as it reflects India’s unity and democratic values. However, amidst the celebratory atmosphere, there is a mixed response from citizens, particularly those from Manipur, both at home and abroad.
For many Manipuris, the joy of celebrating Republic Day is overshadowed by the grim reality of the state’s prolonged crisis. The 20-month-long conflict in Manipur has claimed over 250 lives, including security personnel, and displaced more than 60,000 civilians. This crisis has raised questions about the state of democracy and the enforcement of constitutional provisions in the region. Fundamental rights, which are the cornerstone of the Indian Constitution, have been severely undermined, leaving citizens feeling alienated and disillusioned.
Among the dissenting voices is Ngangbam Shantikumar, a Manipuri origin individual based in Taiwan. In a social media post, he expressed his decision to boycott the Republic Day celebrations organized by the Indian Embassy. His reasoning is rooted in the perceived failure of the Indian government to uphold constitutional guarantees and protect the people of Manipur. Similar sentiments are echoed by other NRIs of Manipuri origin, highlighting a growing discontent within the Diaspora.
The situation in Manipur has also drawn international attention. The Foreign Policy Journal, a respected publication in the United States, recently listed the Manipur crisis as one of the eight potential global conflicts and challenges. From an outsider’s perspective, the issue is often mischaracterized as a clash between the Kuki and Meitei communities. While this narrative oversimplifies the complexities of the situation, it underscores the geopolitical implications of the unrest in this strategically significant region of India’s Northeast.
For New Delhi, the crisis in Manipur poses a significant challenge to national security. At a time when India is grappling with external pressures from Pakistan and China, allowing the situation in Manipur to fester could exacerbate vulnerabilities. The proxy games being played under the guise of addressing armed insurgencies in the region are not only counterproductive but also jeopardize the broader goals of peace and stability. Resolving the Manipur crisis requires a nuanced and comprehensive approach that goes beyond military interventions. It demands genuine political dialogue, justice for the victims, and a commitment to upholding the constitutional rights of all citizens.
For Manipuris, the irony of celebrating Republic Day lies in the fact that the principles enshrined in the Constitution seem like distant ideals rather than lived realities. The sense of alienation felt by Manipuris is a stark reminder of the gap between the promises of the Constitution and their implementation on the ground. It is this gap that fuels the skepticism and discontent among the people, making it difficult for them to partake in the celebrations wholeheartedly.
Republic Day is a day to reflect on the values that the Constitution represents—justice, equality, liberty, and fraternity—and to recommit to realizing these ideals for all citizens. The government’s focus should be on bridging the trust deficit and addressing the grievances of the people of Manipur. Only by ensuring that the Constitution’s provisions are upheld can the nation truly honor the spirit of Republic Day.
As the celebrations unfold across the country and beyond, it is essential to remember that the true essence of Republic Day lies not in grand parades or ceremonies but in the collective commitment to democracy and inclusivity. The ongoing crisis in Manipur serves as a wake-up call for India to reaffirm its dedication to these principles. Only then can the celebrations truly reflect the spirit of the Republic and resonate with every citizen, regardless of their circumstances.