Is the development package a solution for Manipur Crisis Mr. Prime Minister?

Late Purno Sangma, former Lok Sabha speaker, emphasized the pivotal role of development in fostering peace in the North East region during a period marked by heightened insurgency across the states. This assertion sparked debate, with some contending that development should follow the restoration of peace. The report dismisses the analogy of “the chicken or the egg” as inappropriate for societal contexts, prompting a call for public discourse on whether peace must precede development or vice versa, especially in light of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent announcements and groundwork for numerous projects. Despite the prolonged crisis in Manipur, the Prime Minister’s silence on the matter during his foundation-laying ceremonies, where projects worth Rs. 3,500 crore were inaugurated, raises speculation. The report questions whether this silence is a strategic maneuver to resolve the crisis or a deliberate neglect of the issue, presenting it as a pressing concern.
During his address to the people of North East India in Arunachal Pradesh, the Prime Minister criticized the earlier Congress-led government’s negligence toward porous borders with neighboring countries, without specifying the particular border—Indo-Myanmar or Indo-China. This omission leaves room for interpretation regarding its relevance to the Manipur crisis, as no explicit mention of the state’s issues was made.
Amidst the crisis, political parties in Manipur are actively preparing for the impending parliamentary elections. Chief Minister N. Biren Singh announced the initiation of the BJP’s campaign for the Lok Sabha election, with BJP leader Adim Panmei declaring his candidacy independently. Additionally, aspirants are intensifying campaigns in the Outer Manipur Parliamentary constituencies, even in the volatile Kangpokpi district. The district administration’s preparation for the election is evident, alongside advertisements for government job vacancies in newspapers. Despite these political activities, the report highlights the failure to address the plight of 60,000 internally displaced people, as confrontations between rival factions persist.
The assertion that the crisis in Manipur will automatically resolve with the implementation of various development projects overlooks the complexity of the situation. It is essential to recognize that historical conflicts within Manipur, such as those between the Nagas, Kukis, Meiteis, and Meitei Pangals since the 1990s, were not resolved solely through development initiatives. Rather, the resolution of these conflicts often required third-party intervention and concerted efforts towards reconciliation.
For instance, the longstanding conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities persists today and demands a nuanced understanding. The roots of this conflict run deep and have been extensively discussed within both communities. Some of the leaders at the central government have real understanding even though they fail to act. Without effective measures taken by the central government to address the underlying grievances and tensions, the crisis is unlikely to see a resolution.
This highlights the importance of comprehensive approaches that go beyond mere development projects. While development undoubtedly plays a crucial role in addressing socio-economic disparities and fostering stability, it must be accompanied by measures to address historical grievances, promote dialogue, and facilitate reconciliation among communities.
Therefore, if the Prime Minister believes that development alone will resolve the crisis in Manipur, it indicates either a misunderstanding of the complexities involved or a lack of awareness regarding the historical context and dynamics of the region. Effective intervention must take into account the multifaceted nature of the issues at hand and prioritize holistic solutions that address both developmental needs and underlying social, cultural, and political tensions.