Government’s Illusion of Action: Press Releases and Internet Bans Eclipse Real Peace

Manipur finds itself in the grip of unrelenting violence and unrest, with the situation poised to extend into its seventh month. A glaring illustration of an ineffective chief minister manifests in the person of N Biren Singh. To quell the potential eruption of further turmoil triggered by the dissemination of information and news, the government has resorted to a drastic measure – the suspension of mobile internet services. Notably, this marks the first instance, under the aegis of the BJP-led government led by N Biren Singh, where such a protracted ban on mobile internet has been enforced. In fact, there have been more instances of bans than successful restorations, effectively implying that the norm is the absence of mobile internet availability. The government appears to prioritize sending out press releases, providing financial assistance, and implementing internet suspensions, yet there is a noticeable absence of tangible efforts directed toward achieving “real peace” through constructive dialogue.
While denizens of Imphal and its adjacent areas, endowed with the luxury of broadband connectivity, revel in unhindered access to a vast repository of information, the picture is markedly different for those residing in the remote hill districts and far-flung regions untouched by the broadband network. In these areas, the radio stands as a lifeline, the solitary link to the outside world. The ramifications of this mobile internet ban are profound. Affluent families’ children continue to enjoy open access to a wealth of information and a treasure trove of online educational materials. In stark contrast, economically disadvantaged households, unable to bear the financial burden of broadband connectivity, risk being left far behind their peers with the privilege of broadband internet access. This digital schism not only compounds the difficulties faced by less privileged families but also casts a long shadow over the educational prospects of the marginalized.
The prevailing situation in Manipur underscores Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s glaring shortcomings in steering the state through trying times. Leadership quality and effectiveness are most acutely tested during such crises, and unfortunately, his performance has been lacking. The repeated claims of the Chief Minister and the government that they are “trying” ring hollow in the face of the protracted turmoil. They seem to have forgotten that trying also has its limits, and the populace requires tangible results.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has, in contrast, demonstrated the capacity of its leaders other than N Biren Singh to manage the situation effectively. The stark failures of the past six months speak volumes. India’s current press freedom ranking at 161 out of 180 countries is a concerning indicator, and the extended ban on mobile internet only exacerbates the challenges faced by journalists striving for fair and timely reporting. It’s a perplexing irony that while the common people are deprived of mobile internet, the Chief Minister’s speeches are broadcast live on platforms like Facebook. The accessibility gap is palpable – how can those who cannot afford internet access engage with his speeches? The disparity in access to information and communication is a pressing concern that needs to be addressed.
Despite Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s repeated assurances that mobile internet would be restored, these promises remain unfulfilled. He has emphasized the prior incidents of viral photos of two students that triggered protests, leading to the subsequent suspension of the internet just a few days after its initial restoration. However, it’s worth noting that the release of these photographs and the ensuing public outcry played a pivotal role in locating and apprehending the culprits, underscoring the positive outcomes that internet restoration can yield.
In light of these considerations, the government must shoulder its responsibilities with greater care. Mere suspension of mobile internet services disproportionately impacts the underprivileged and those residing on the outskirts of the state. It’s imperative that the government shifts its focus towards devising lasting solutions rather than resorting to temporary measures like distributing money to relief camp inmates and staging photo opportunities, seemingly in an attempt to project the image of an active government. In this endeavor, it’s essential to remember that these individuals are in relief camps precisely because of the government’s inability to effectively control and maintain law and order in Manipur. Prioritizing long-term, sustainable solutions over superficial gestures is the need of the hour.