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The escalating ethnic and security crisis in Manipur has become one of the most pressing internal security challenges in India. While the government’s reliance on security forces and emergency measures has provided temporary relief, the long-term solution lies in political intervention, dialogue, and a holistic approach to conflict resolution. The situation in Manipur requires urgent attention from both the central and state governments, emphasizing the need for meaningful action beyond mere law enforcement.
The Ethnic Conflict in Manipur
The roots of the crisis in Manipur lie in the deep-seated ethnic tensions between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. The violence, which erupted in May 2023, has resulted in hundreds of casualties and large-scale displacement, with over 60,000 people forced to flee their homes. The destruction of religious sites and the ongoing attacks on both communities have exacerbated the situation, pushing the state into a governance vacuum. Despite the scale of the conflict, the response from the state and central governments has been largely reactive, focusing on security measures without addressing the underlying causes of the violence.
Inadequate Government Response
The government’s strategy of deploying Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and imposing the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) has failed to resolve the conflict. While these measures have provided some stability, they have not addressed the grievances of the affected communities. There has been little progress in building trust between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, and the lack of dialogue has allowed the situation to deteriorate further.
Lessons from Tribal Unrest Management
India’s history of managing tribal unrest, such as in the Northeast during the insurgency years, has shown that violence containment must go hand in hand with dialogue, reconciliation, and the restoration of trust. The government must prioritize peace-building efforts, including establishing peace committees at the district and state levels, and engage all stakeholders in the peace process. The previous efforts, such as initial dialogues led by the Home Minister, have been insufficient due to the lack of follow-up and long-term commitment.
Proposed Solutions for Peace and Stability
To address the crisis in Manipur, a multi-pronged approach is necessary:
Leadership and Governance: The Prime Minister should personally visit Manipur to instill confidence among the people. The imposition of President’s Rule and the appointment of a capable governor with counter-insurgency experience is also essential to overhaul the administration.
Decisive Action: The government must take firm action against key instigators of violence, including extremists and drug traffickers. A robust disarmament drive should be launched, with stringent penalties for those in possession of illegal weapons.
Peace-Building Initiatives: Establish peace committees with representation from all communities. These committees can serve as platforms for dialogue and conflict resolution. Efforts should be made to rebuild trust and foster reconciliation between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities.
Conclusion
The crisis in Manipur requires urgent and sustained intervention from both the state and central governments. While security measures are necessary, they are not sufficient to address the complex ethnic and political issues at the heart of the conflict. The government must adopt a comprehensive approach that combines governance reform, community engagement, and long-term peace-building initiatives. Only through dialogue and inclusive strategies can Manipur return to a path of peace and stability.