by Sudhanshu Roy 9 December 2023
As Manipur endures seven months of persistent violence, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) finds itself under intense scrutiny for its apparent inability to bring about a resolution to the protracted conflict. The Congress, echoing the sentiments of numerous concerned citizens, is raising pivotal questions about accountability, the rapid deterioration of law and order, and the conspicuous silence of the Prime Minister. In the face of an unforgivable continuation of violence, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has emerged as a vocal critic, demanding answers to questions that strike at the heart of the matter. Who shoulders the responsibility for the complete breakdown of law and order in the state? Why does the Chief Minister persist in an untenable position, seemingly unscathed by the escalating crisis? Kharge’s inquiries transcend political rhetoric; they are an urgent appeal for accountability and a plea for intervention to end the prolonged stalemate.
The Congress’s call for the Prime Minister to engage in a detailed discussion is not merely a political maneuver but a desperate plea for decisive action. The BJP’s handling of the Manipur conflict reveals a prolonged deadlock rather than a proactive approach to finding a resolution. In times of crisis, leadership is not only about making bold decisions but also about acknowledging when course corrections are necessary. The apparent lack of both raises concerns about the efficacy of the ruling party’s strategy. The recent gunfight resulting in the tragic death of 13 individuals and the displacement of more than 60,000 people over 215 days underscores the gravity of the situation. Kharge’s characterization of the living conditions of those internally displaced as inhumane and far from satisfactory speaks to the urgent need for intervention. The reported lack of visible work by the Peace Committee raises questions about the effectiveness of government measures in restoring peace, normalcy, and harmony in Manipur.
Jairam Ramesh, Congress General Secretary, astutely questions the prolonged silence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the Manipur situation. Despite claims by the Home Minister that peace has returned, ground realities paint a starkly different picture. The Prime Minister’s refusal to engage with Manipuri leaders or visit the state raises concerns about the government’s commitment to resolving the crisis. Leadership demands visibility, and the inexplicable silence of the Prime Minister sends a disconcerting message to those affected. The visit by the Manipur Human Rights Commission (MHRC) to assess the human rights situation amid the ongoing crisis further magnifies the severity of the issue. MHRC Chairperson UB Saha’s revelation about the significant number of unresolved human rights cases indicates a systemic failure that goes beyond the immediate conflict. The call for Nagas to act as mediators to end the conflict underscores the intricate socio-political dynamics at play.
Saha’s emphasis on the need for neutral communities to intervene and maintain peace speaks to the complex web of challenges that the BJP-led government must navigate. The failure to address these intricacies not only jeopardizes peace but also hampers development and human rights implementation in Manipur. The appeal for unity and recognition that demarcating people based on ethnic lines poses a threat to the state’s unique culture should serve as a wake-up call for the government. As the Congress persistently raises the issue of Manipur violence and seeks parliamentary discussion, it is evident that the BJP faces a credibility crisis in handling this protracted conflict. The lack of a comprehensive strategy, coupled with the absence of visible and engaged leadership, has allowed the situation to fester and escalate.
In conclusion, the BJP’s prolonged struggle to resolve the Manipur conflict raises serious questions about its governance, crisis management, and commitment to the well-being of the people. The continued unrest and the human toll demand urgent attention, not just in terms of reactive measures but a comprehensive and sustained strategy that addresses the root causes of the conflict. The BJP’s leadership must recognize that the clock is ticking, and Manipur awaits a resolution that seems elusive under the current administration. It’s time for the ruling party to acknowledge the gravity of the situation, reassess its approach, and demonstrate a commitment to restoring peace, stability, and justice in Manipur. The people of Manipur deserve a government that leads with conviction, transparency, and a genuine desire to bring an end to their suffering.