Even after two years since the violent conflict broke out in Manipur on May 3, 2023, the state continues to reel under an unending crisis, with no tangible roadmap or resolution in sight. The continued unrest, loss of lives, and breakdown of constitutional mechanisms raise a critical and uncomfortable question: Has India failed Manipur?
Following the outbreak of the ethnic conflict—primarily involving the Kuki community, supported by armed militants under the Suspension of Operation (SoO) agreement with the Government of India—the constitutional order in Manipur completely collapsed. The then popularly elected government under Chief Minister N. Biren Singh proved ineffective in restoring peace or upholding the constitutional rights of the people. It took 21 months after the outbreak for the Centre to impose President’s Rule—a provision under Article 356 of the Constitution, meant to restore governance when the state machinery fails.
However, even three months after President’s Rule was imposed, the situation remains stagnant. While incidents of gunfire may have subsided, there has been no visible progress in terms of restoring law and order, ensuring justice for victims, or rehabilitating displaced communities. With both the elected state government and the central administration under President’s Rule unable to protect the fundamental rights of citizens, the larger failure appears to be constitutional and national in nature.
The silence from India’s highest offices, particularly the Prime Minister, in the face of ongoing violence, killings, and large-scale displacement, adds to the perception of abandonment. In November 2024, a disturbing incident occurred in Jiribam district, where women and children were taken hostage and later reportedly murdered by militants. Unlike other national tragedies—such as the 2017 Pahalgam attack in Jammu and Kashmir, where strong statements and swift action followed—there was no public condemnation from the Prime Minister or any senior leaders regarding the atrocities in Manipur. This selective attention has led many to question whether the people of Manipur are seen as equal citizens of the Indian Union.
Since the beginning of the crisis, nearly 260 people have lost their lives, with over 30 individuals still missing, including women and children. Thousands of homes have been destroyed, rendering families homeless and scattered. Despite this, there has been no significant action against those responsible. Not a single high-profile arrest or legal proceeding has taken place against the perpetrators of these acts of terror.
A key factor in the origin and continuation of this crisis is the role of Kuki militants who had signed the Suspension of Operation (SoO) agreement with the Government of India. Notably, the SoO agreement had lapsed in February 2024, yet there is no public record of its renewal. Despite this, these armed groups continue to possess sophisticated weapons such as AK-47s, AK-56s, and SLRs—arms that are legally permitted only to government forces. According to the Arms Act of 1959, such weapons are not meant for civilian or private militia possession. Yet, these groups have operated with impunity.
Governor A.K. Bhalla have issued appeals for the public to surrender illegal and looted weapons. But no effective steps have been taken to disarm militant groups, especially those whose agreements with the government no longer hold legal validity. This selective enforcement further weakens the credibility of state institutions and raises questions about the Centre’s willingness or ability to bring about meaningful resolution.
The crisis in Manipur is unprecedented in its scale and complexity. Yet, India, an emerging global power with aspirations of regional leadership, appears either uninterested, helpless, or intentionally disengaged from resolving one of the most serious internal conflicts in its recent history. The constitutional silence about what comes after President’s Rule fails only deepens the uncertainty.
When both the elected state government and the Central intervention under President’s Rule fail to protect citizens, uphold constitutional values, and maintain territorial integrity, it is not just a regional crisis—it becomes a national failure. Manipur deserves not just peace, but also justice, dignity, and constitutional protection as guaranteed to every Indian citizen.
It is high time the Government of India acknowledges the gravity of the crisis in Manipur and acts decisively—not only to restore law and order but to restore the people’s faith in the Indian Constitution and its democratic institutions.