IT News
Imphal, May 11:
Very recently, some sections of Manipuri people show humanitarian concerns by extending help to the cadres of NSCN (IM) who are at some undisclosed camps in Manipur. The infamous strategy of LOCKDOWN to curb the spread of Covid-19 makes people from different walks of life bear the brunt, may it be middle class or wage-earners. One can imagine how the Lockdown could make the life of insurgents miserable with limited supplies and space for operation. Though the insurgents who are in peace talks with GOI are relatively better, they are equally subjected to the physical and psychological hardships due to lockdown. At this juncture of history, some Manipuris offered supplies to undisclosed NSCN (IM) camps which is not only humanitarian aid but also a relief of the NSCN (IM) cadres.
Now, we can remember that there was a brief tension between Assam Rifles and NSCN (IM) over the opening of the latter’s camp in Ukhrul District of Manipur. Because of the tensions, the Government of India asked the State government to extend help in solving the problem by using State forces. Somehow the tension was over but a question remained in the minds of the people over the extent and application of the ceasefire agreement in the State of Manipur. The Manipuri people are kept in the dark as to the nature and extent of cease fire in the State so far. There were many instances on which the people have raised this question. Every time either the Government of India or of Manipur said one or another to avoid further questions. As we feel, the government’s answers could not satisfy the people of the state. Many CSOs in the State always stood against the double standards of the governments. UCM consistently raised its voice against the double talks of the Central Government and lament over the inaction of the State Government.
Now in the gesture of the humanitarian concern, one thing reappears in the political landscape of Manipur over the presence of un-designated camp of NSCN (IM). This time the Government of Manipur said nothing as there is no tension so far between NSCN (IM) and Government of India. Is the State Government acting as fire brigade, activated only when there is fire? Does not the State Government have any jurisdiction on the presence and operation of or against the insurgency group?
Moreover the chilling state of affairs in the recent development is the obvious silence of civil societies. The moves of some frontal organizations of NSCN (IM) are not reacted on by any civil societies including student bodies. The Government of Manipur is equally inactive. But, the mind of the collective Manipuri people is active: are the people of Manipur defeated in the war to protect and save the integrity of the state.
Manipur wants to know exactly the nature and extent of ceasefire between GOI and NSCN (IM). Manipur wants to know why the Government of Manipur is always a silent spectator unless directed to act in one way or another by GOI. Manipur wants to know why there is uncomfortable silence of CSOs. Manipur wants her political parties to raise voice against the GOI political plays and against the hide and seek game of Muivah and Modi. The political motives cannot be hidden behind the humanitarian dance.
