Manipur’s Crisis: restoring trust before demanding disarmament

Manipur remains in turmoil even after the imposition of President’s Rule, proving that administrative changes alone are not enough to resolve the deep-rooted crisis. Yesterday’s directive from the Governor, urging youths in possession of illegal weapons to surrender within seven days, was intended as a step toward peace. However, the immediate and forceful response of security forces has further aggravated tensions, revealing the widening gap between the government and the people. Instead of instilling confidence, this appeal has been perceived as a direct threat by communities that have already lost trust in both the state and central governments.
The reality is that the village volunteers and armed youths did not pick up weapons by choice. They were forced into it as a desperate measure to defend their land and lives, stepping into the security vacuum left by a failing state. The government failed to protect them when they needed security the most, leaving them with no option but to take up arms for their survival. Now, with security forces ordering them to surrender without first ensuring their safety, the response is one of defiance rather than compliance. Before demanding disarmament, the government under President’s Rule must prove that security forces can and will protect all communities without bias. Only when people feel truly secure will they willingly lay down their weapons.
For the past 21 months, Manipur has remained in a state of chaos following the violent conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities that erupted in May 2023. With over 250 lives lost, thousands displaced, and entire villages destroyed, the situation remains dire. Despite the gravity of the crisis, political leaders have failed to bring stability, allowing tensions to fester while communities live in constant fear.
Under mounting pressure, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh announced his resignation, which plunged the BJP into an internal power struggle. Instead of prioritizing peace and reconciliation, political factions have been more focused on securing the Chief Minister’s position.
With President’s Rule now in place and the state assembly under suspended animation, the situation has reached a critical juncture. However, this move has not addressed the deep-rooted ethnic tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities. Instead, it risks further exacerbating hostilities, as both sides may resort to extreme actions in response to the political uncertainty. The central government cannot afford to remain a passive observer. It must take decisive action by initiating dialogue between community representatives and working toward a comprehensive political roadmap for peace. Without meaningful engagement, tensions will only worsen, making a peaceful resolution more elusive.
The imposition of President’s Rule was expected to bring stability, but instead, it has raised more questions than answers. What concrete steps is the administration taking to bridge the divide between the warring communities? How does the government plan to address the longstanding grievances of both Meiteis and Kukis? And most importantly, what security guarantees will be provided to those who lay down arms? These are critical issues that need urgent attention. The government must recognize that peace cannot be enforced solely through military means—it must be built through dialogue, trust, and reconciliation.
Beyond political maneuvering, the economic toll of the conflict cannot be ignored. The prolonged violence has left Manipur’s economy in ruins. Shops, businesses, homes, and public infrastructure have been destroyed, pushing the state into deeper financial distress. Many families have lost their livelihoods, and the fear of further violence prevents normal economic activities from resuming. The administration must prioritize the rehabilitation of affected families, ensuring timely compensation and support for those who have suffered losses. Economic recovery should not be an afterthought; it must be an integral part of the peace process. A stable economy will not only restore people’s confidence in the system but will also discourage further conflict by providing alternative means of livelihood.
Another crucial aspect is the role of security forces. Their presence should serve to protect and reassure the people, not to instill fear. There have been multiple allegations of bias and excessive force by security personnel, which only deepens distrust among communities. If President’s Rule is to be effective, the security forces must act impartially and work towards rebuilding trust. Arbitrary arrests, aggressive crackdowns, and disproportionate force will only push communities further apart, making reconciliation impossible. A fair and just approach is needed, one that ensures security without alienating the very people it is meant to protect.
The people of Manipur deserve more than political maneuvering and empty promises. They need genuine security, economic stability, and a clear path toward lasting peace.
The road to peace is not easy, but it is necessary. It requires patience, dialogue, and a commitment to justice. The government, both at the state and central levels, must rise above political calculations and focus on what truly matters—restoring trust, rebuilding communities, and ensuring that Manipur does not remain trapped in a cycle of violence and despair. It is time for governance that heals wounds, not one that creates deeper divides.