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Manipur’s unseen crisis: A stark omission in Union Budget 2024

by Editorial Team
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Manipur’s unseen crisis: A stark omission in Union Budget 2024

The Union Budget 2024, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, has left many states disillusioned, but perhaps none more so than Manipur. Despite the ongoing turmoil and humanitarian crisis in the state, the budget failed to address the pressing issues faced by its people. This glaring omission has prompted at least four chief ministers, including those from the Congress and Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister, to boycott the NITI Aayog meeting scheduled for July 27, protesting against what they deem a discriminatory budget. Curiously, however, Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh remains optimistic, lauding the Modi government and eagerly preparing to attend the NITI Aayog meeting.
Manipur has been grappling with a severe crisis for over 14 months. The unrest has confined thousands to relief camps, left students without a future, and forced farmers to abandon their fields. The state is starkly divided, with the Kuki and Meitei communities unable to cross into each other’s territories since May 3, 2023. Highways have become impassable for Meitei people, and the deteriorating road conditions have driven drivers off the roads, signaling an impending scarcity of food and essential items.
The Union Budget’s failure to address these issues is not just an oversight but a gross injustice to the people of Manipur. The crisis has been persistent, yet the government has chosen to turn a blind eye to the suffering. Relief measures, rehabilitation programs, and infrastructural support are desperately needed, but the budget offers none of these. This neglect is further highlighted by the planned boycott of the NITI Aayog meeting by other chief ministers, who recognize the discriminatory nature of the budget.
Chief Minister N. Biren Singh’s excitement about the budget is puzzling, to say the least. His praise for the Modi government and eagerness to attend the NITI Aayog meeting stand in stark contrast to the grim reality faced by his constituents. It raises questions about his priorities and the extent to which he is in touch with the ground realities of his state. His actions suggest a disconnect between the state government and the people, who are desperate for attention and aid.
The situation in Manipur is dire. Thousands of people have been living in relief camps for over a year, with no end in sight. These camps are often overcrowded and lack basic amenities, leading to a deteriorating quality of life for the inhabitants. Students, who are the future of the state, have had their education disrupted. Schools and colleges are either closed or functioning at a minimal capacity, leaving a generation of young people in limbo. The agricultural sector, which is the backbone of Manipur’s economy, has been severely affected. Farmers have abandoned their fields, leading to a decline in agricultural productivity and threatening food security in the state.
The division between the Kuki and Meitei communities has created a state of perpetual tension and insecurity. The inability to cross into each other’s territories has disrupted social cohesion and economic activities. The highways, which are lifelines for the state, are no longer safe for Meitei people. The poor condition of the roads has exacerbated the situation, making it difficult for essential goods to reach those in need. This has led to a scarcity of food and other essential items, further deepening the crisis.
In light of these challenges, the Union Budget’s silence on Manipur is indefensible. The state needs a comprehensive relief and rehabilitation plan, substantial financial assistance, and infrastructural development. The central government must recognize the severity of the crisis and allocate resources accordingly. Ignoring Manipur’s plight will only lead to further suffering and unrest.
The planned boycott of the NITI Aayog meeting by several chief ministers is a commendable stand against the discriminatory nature of the budget. It is a call for fairness and justice, not just for Manipur but for all states facing neglect. Chief Minister N. Biren Singh should take heed of this collective dissent and reassess his stance beyond the ambit of his political party he belongs to. His enthusiasm for the budget and the upcoming meeting must be tempered with a realistic understanding of the needs and aspirations of his people.
The people of Manipur deserve better. They need a government that listens, responds, and takes decisive action to alleviate their suffering. The Union Budget 2024, as it stands, is a missed opportunity to address the crisis in Manipur. It is imperative that this oversight is corrected, and the state receives the attention and support it so desperately needs. Only then can Manipur hope to overcome its current challenges and move towards a brighter future.

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