The Unending Crisis in Manipur – Let the IDPs return home

The violence that erupted in Manipur on May 3, 2023, has now persisted for over 16 months, leaving a profound scar on the state’s social fabric. The ongoing turmoil has forced approximately 60,000 people to flee their homes, seeking refuge in various relief camps or the homes of relatives. Recent government reports claim that the number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) has now been reduced to around 40,000, with authorities suggesting that the crisis is normalizing. However, this assertion stands in stark contrast to the lived realities of those affected by the violence, whose lives have been irrevocably altered and whose hopes for a return to normalcy remain dim.
For the IDPs, these months have been characterized by loss, trauma, and a profound sense of helplessness. Many families have not seen their homes for over a year, their properties reduced to memories of what once was. Small business owners, who once contributed to the local economy and supported their families, now find themselves without means for survival. The government’s assistance, if any, appears to be more symbolic than substantive, often failing to meet the basic needs of those displaced. Living conditions in the relief camps are dire, with families crowded together in makeshift shelters that lack privacy and basic amenities, forcing them to endure conditions akin to those of cattle in a barn.
The traditional Meitei culture, which emphasizes respect and hospitality, particularly towards in-laws and extended family, has been shattered in this environment. Families that once thrived in their communities now feel disconnected and estranged. The very foundations of social cohesion that define Meitei society are crumbling under the weight of prolonged violence and instability. After 16 months of waiting and tolerating these conditions, despair has taken root among the displaced. Many express feelings of hopelessness, leading to a tragic contemplation of suicide—a stark indicator of the psychological toll this crisis is exacting on the community.
In a recently introduced law, the BNS has declared that suicide is not a crime. While this may represent a step toward destigmatizing mental health issues, it also highlights a troubling reality: when individuals feel driven to such extremes, society must confront the systemic failures that have led to such desperation. If any untoward incidents occur as a consequence of this ongoing crisis, who will be held accountable? The government must take responsibility for allowing conditions that deprive citizens of their right to safety, security, and stability in their own homes.
In their moments of vulnerability, many IDPs have reached out to the Prime Minister, pleading for intervention and assistance to return to their homes. Yet, their calls have largely gone unanswered, leaving them to grapple with the painful reality of being abandoned by their government. The disconnect between the leaders in New Delhi and the experiences of those in Manipur exacerbates the crisis, as decisions made far removed from the realities on the ground fail to address the urgent needs of the people.
It is essential to acknowledge that this crisis is not simply a local issue; it is a reflection of broader systemic failures in governance, community relations, and the protection of human rights. The central government must recognize its role in facilitating dialogue among conflicting groups and ensuring the restoration of peace and normalcy in Manipur. To do so, it must engage with local leaders, civil society organizations, and the displaced communities themselves to develop comprehensive strategies for reconciliation and rebuilding.
Moreover, the narratives of those affected must be prioritized in any recovery efforts. It is imperative that their voices are heard, their needs addressed, and their dignity restored. The government should not only provide immediate assistance to the IDPs but also invest in long-term solutions that promote economic recovery, social cohesion, and community resilience. Programs aimed at reintegrating displaced individuals into their communities and supporting local businesses will be vital for the state’s recovery.
The ongoing violence in Manipur and the plight of the IDPs are a national concern that calls for urgent action. As the community stands on the brink of despair, it is incumbent upon the government to act decisively to restore peace and normalcy. The people of Manipur have shown remarkable resilience, but they can no longer wait in limbo. It is time for the government to step up and fulfill its duty to protect its citizens and ensure that their rights are upheld. Only then can the healing begin, and the path toward a brighter future be forged.