Rhetoric vs. Reality: Manipur and the Unfulfilled Promise of Constitutional Values

In yesterday’s Lok Sabha address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed eleven resolutions aimed at reinforcing constitutional values and fostering inclusive national progress. The resolutions encompass vital principles: fulfilling duties as citizens and government, inclusive growth through “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas,” zero tolerance towards corruption, pride in culture and traditions, shedding the colonial mindset, eliminating family rule from politics, respecting and safeguarding the Constitution, equitable reservations, championing women-led growth, cooperative federalism, and achieving the vision of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.” While these resolutions project an inspiring vision, the glaring omission of any reference to the ongoing crisis in Manipur raises troubling questions about the government’s commitment to addressing its most pressing internal challenges.
However, such lofty ideals must be tested against ground realities. In states like Manipur, where the social fabric has been torn apart by ethnic violence and governmental lapses, these resolutions ring hollow. The fundamental guarantees of life, liberty, and equality have been systematically denied to the people of Manipur, exposing the stark gap between rhetoric and reality.
Manipur has witnessed months of unrest, marked by violence, displacement, and systemic failures to protect its citizens. Ethnic tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities have escalated into a full-blown humanitarian crisis. Reports of human rights violations, destruction of homes, and disruption of livelihoods have become all too common. The state has failed to safeguard the basic rights of its citizens, leaving thousands in a state of fear and uncertainty. In such a scenario, the Prime Minister’s silence on Manipur in his speech is deeply disheartening. It undermines the credibility of the government’s commitment to the very constitutional values the resolutions seek to uphold.
Consider the resolution emphasizing pride in India’s culture and traditions. While celebrating cultural heritage is vital, it must include the diverse traditions of all communities. The Manipur crisis underscores how fragile this inclusivity can be when ethnic and cultural identities are weaponized for political gains. The government’s failure to address the situation perpetuates divisions and marginalizes vulnerable communities, contradicting the vision of a united and harmonious India.
Similarly, the resolution advocating women-led growth seems disconnected from the reality on the ground. In Manipur, women have borne the brunt of violence, facing displacement, trauma, and loss. Instances of gender-based violence have been reported, highlighting the vulnerability of women in conflict zones. While the resolution rightly emphasizes the need for women to lead India’s development, it must first ensure their safety and dignity. Without addressing the plight of women in Manipur, this resolution risks being perceived as mere lip service.
The resolution to respect and safeguard the Constitution also warrants scrutiny in light of the Manipur crisis. The Indian Constitution guarantees fundamental rights to all citizens, including the right to equality, freedom of speech, and protection from discrimination. However, in Manipur, these rights have been systematically undermined. The lack of timely intervention and accountability has eroded faith in the state’s ability to uphold constitutional principles. If the government genuinely seeks to respect the Constitution, it must prioritize restoring peace, justice, and normalcy in Manipur.
Cooperative federalism, as outlined in the resolution emphasizing state development alongside national progress, is another principle that appears compromised in Manipur. The state’s inability to address the crisis effectively has highlighted the need for stronger collaboration between the central and state governments. However, the Centre’s perceived inaction and lack of proactive measures have deepened the crisis. True cooperative federalism requires the central government to step in decisively when states falter, ensuring that constitutional guarantees are upheld uniformly across the country.
The Prime Minister’s resolutions undoubtedly outline a vision for a stronger and more inclusive India. However, the absence of any reference to the Manipur crisis undermines their credibility. Resolutions are meaningful only when translated into action, particularly in addressing the most pressing challenges facing the nation. The people of Manipur deserve more than silence; they deserve accountability, justice, and a tangible commitment to restoring their rights and dignity.
To uphold the spirit of constitutional values, the government must address the Manipur crisis with urgency and resolve. It must bridge the gap between rhetoric and reality by ensuring that the fundamental rights of all citizens are protected, regardless of region, ethnicity, or community. Only then can the vision of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” become a lived reality for all Indians, including those in Manipur.