Human Rights Day amid crisis—A distant dream for Manipur

As the world observes International Human Rights Day, a somber reflection is necessary on the situation in Manipur, where the very essence of human rights lies in tatters. The ongoing crisis has rendered over 60,000 people homeless, claimed nearly 300 lives, and resulted in the forced disappearance of at least 40 individuals. In this state of despair and disarray, the promise of fundamental rights enshrined in the Indian Constitution feels like an empty promise to the people of Manipur.
The conflict in Manipur has unraveled lives, displacing entire communities and severing families. What began as an ethnic and political conflict has spiraled into a humanitarian catastrophe. Refugee camps, once thought to be temporary solutions, have become semi-permanent shelters for tens of thousands who cannot return home due to fear, violence, and political apathy. The right to life and liberty, guaranteed under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, is violated daily in Manipur. Women, children, and the elderly bear the brunt of the crisis, struggling for basic necessities such as food, shelter, and medical care. Meanwhile, young men and women live in perpetual fear of violence or disappearance, their lives dictated by an atmosphere of mistrust and unrest.
The state and central governments share responsibility for this protracted crisis. The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), 1958, has exacerbated the human rights situation by granting sweeping powers to security forces, often resulting in unchecked abuses. While AFSPA’s purported aim is to maintain law and order, its implementation has only deepened divisions and created a legacy of fear. Equally troubling is the apparent indifference of policymakers. While the nation moves forward with ambitious economic and geopolitical goals, Manipur is left behind as an afterthought. The lack of a comprehensive peace plan or conflict resolution framework is evidence of neglect that perpetuates the cycle of violence.
Fundamental rights are not merely theoretical constructs; they are the bedrock of democracy and the rule of law. However, in Manipur, these rights remain out of reach. The right to free movement is curtailed by curfews and barricades. The right to equality and protection under the law is eroded by systemic biases and targeted violence. The right to freedom of expression is stifled by intimidation and censorship. Can a people truly celebrate human rights when they live in a state of siege? The Constitution promises security and dignity, but for many in Manipur, these remain elusive dreams.
Amid the gloom, civil society organizations, local activists, and international observers have played a crucial role in highlighting the plight of Manipur. These groups have provided humanitarian aid, legal assistance, and platforms to amplify the voices of the affected. Yet, their efforts are not enough to address the magnitude of the crisis. The media, both local and national, must also do better. Stories of resilience and resistance from Manipur need to be brought to the forefront to ensure that the voices of its people do not go unheard.
As we mark International Human Rights Day, the need for a transformative approach to Manipur’s crisis cannot be overstated. The displaced need secure shelters, access to healthcare, education, and mental health support. The government must prioritize rebuilding homes and communities. Impunity for crimes committed by any party—whether state forces, militants, or civilians—must end, with independent investigations into extrajudicial killings, disappearances, and human rights violations. The Armed Forces Special Powers Act, which has contributed to a culture of unaccountability and fear, must be repealed or significantly reformed to rebuild trust between the people and the state.
Genuine efforts to foster dialogue between conflicting communities are critical. Only through understanding and reconciliation can lasting peace be achieved. Investment in infrastructure, education, and livelihoods is essential to address the root causes of unrest and provide alternatives to cycles of violence.
Despite the immense suffering, the spirit of the people of Manipur remains unbroken. Communities have come together to support one another, and local organizations continue to fight for justice and peace. The resilience of these individuals is a testament to the indomitable human spirit. As the world observes International Human Rights Day, let us remember Manipur not as a place of conflict but as a land of people yearning for peace, dignity, and equality. The right to live free from fear and violence is not a privilege; it is a basic human right. Manipur deserves nothing less.
Manipur’s crisis is not an isolated issue but a reflection of the cracks in the larger framework of governance and accountability in India. On this Human Rights Day, let us commit to making human rights a reality for all, beginning with those who have been forgotten for far too long. The path forward is not easy, but it is the only way to honor the ideals of human rights and the Constitution itself.