Disconnected dreams

Four-season highways connected by makeshift bridges whose technologies are as recent as those used during the Second World War, even in the face increasing evidences of trucks and other transport vehicles getting overturned, bogged down or plunged into the gorges and rivers resulting in injuries and even death of numerous persons who are risking their lives trying to bring in various essential commodities which the state is incapable of producing due to the lack of effective agrarian policies . Handing out cabinet portfolios to persons with criminal cases pending in the courts of law even as promises of political reforms and assurances of transparency in governance flies thick and fast. Persistent assurances of adequate arrangements and facilities even with overflowing cases of covid-19 positive cases threatening the already stressed healthcare system in the state to spiral out of control. Selected for implementation of the Smart City Mission but still without a practical system of waste collection and management or effective solution to the waterlogged drainage system in and around the city. An erratic power supply that still evidently eludes a lasting solution or entertain enquiries from the consumers by the authorities. Warring tribes in the hills continuing their disputes with neighbouring villages over contentious land boundaries, while standing steadfastly united against the prospect of city dwellers given the right to own land in the hills.
The state of Manipur is indeed a land of contradictions, with its myriad and often intertwined and complex history, diametrically opposed views and aspirations forged by necessities and conveniences through the changing social, political, traditional and economic landscapes through the centuries. It would not be a easy task for even the most determined government and public leaders to try and straighten out the differences and misunderstandings, but it would invariably prove to be the Achilles sword for any politician to try and use them as an excuse for neglecting their sworn duties.
It is indeed ironic that with so much technological advancements bringing the world together and disseminating information within a fraction of a second, public leaders on whose words the people of the state have reposed their faith and power have continued to shape and secure their personal fortunes and future at the expense of the public welfare, taking the pubic for a ride all these while. Development projects and schemes which, if implemented in right earnest and with the required integrity in execution, have continued to be delayed and neglected, or even when completed, remained unable to provide the intended benefit to the public. Somewhere, somehow things that started with a bang almost invariable continues to end with a whimper, and the trend is sadly not a new or isolated one associated with any particular government or political party.
The need of the hour for the state government is not a knee-jerk reaction to the situations arising from time to time but a concerted effort in the form of a comprehensive and pragmatic plan drawn up taking into perspective the future of the state. A just and sometimes uncomfortable decisions need to be taken, and take stands which might seem unpopular. Deeds not words ultimately decide and results will ultimately idolise or demonize the leaders in the course of history. Meanwhile, we the public will have to contend with the disconnected dreams we brought upon themselves through the leaders we have elected themselves.