PPAM warns against Kashmir-like takeover in Manipur, calls for unity and restoration of democracy

The People’s Progressive Alliance Manipur (PPAM) has warned that the Government of India may be attempting to replicate the 2019 Jammu and Kashmir model in Manipur, cautioning that such a move would violate democratic principles, federalism, and international law.
In a press statement issued on January 5, 2026, PPAM said that the situation in Manipur under President’s Rule since February 13, 2025, and the heavy deployment of security forces resembled the circumstances in Jammu and Kashmir prior to the abrogation of Article 370 and the bifurcation of the state into 2 Union Territories in 2019. The alliance noted that in Kashmir, the state had been under President’s Rule from December 19, 2018, and an unprecedented communications blackout had accompanied the takeover.
PPAM claimed that the current security presence in Manipur was being used as a strategic cover to weaken the state’s political autonomy and possibly alter its territorial boundaries. The organisation alleged that any attempt to use violence, extended central rule, or bureaucratic measures to fragment Manipur would be unacceptable.
Citing international law, PPAM stated that the territorial integrity of states is protected under the UN Charter, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) affirms the right of all peoples to self-determination. The alliance said that the people of Manipur, including Meitei, Naga, Kuki, Pangal, Thadou, and other communities, have the right to freely determine their political status without external imposition, and any forced redrawing of boundaries or disenfranchisement of communities would contravene binding international norms.
PPAM further argued that although Manipur does not enjoy special constitutional status like Jammu and Kashmir once did, the political circumstances were comparable, with unrest being used to justify prolonged central control. It warned that President’s Rule, which is meant to be temporary, could be extended beyond constitutional limits, including through delays in elections or invoking emergency provisions.
The alliance condemned reports suggesting the creation of separate political or administrative entities within Manipur and rejected any proposal to divide the state along ethnic lines, describing it as a betrayal of democratic federalism and the spirit of the Manipur Merger Agreement. It also criticised elected legislators in Manipur, saying their failure to collectively demand restoration of a popular government amounted to an abdication of democratic responsibility.
PPAM called on all communities in Manipur to stand united and resist divisive narratives through peaceful means, including sit-ins, marches, and civil society campaigns. It demanded the withdrawal of undue military involvement in civilian affairs, a clear timetable for free and fair elections, and assurance that no changes to Manipur’s territorial integrity would be made without the consent of the people.
The alliance also urged national institutions, including the judiciary, Parliament, and the Election Commission, to uphold federal norms and constitutional safeguards. It appealed to the international community and the Manipuri diaspora in India, ASEAN countries, and the West to support the people of Manipur in safeguarding democracy, unity, and peace.