Manipur’s Woes: Solutions Ahead | Manas Mukul Bandyopadhyay & Gouri Sankar Nag

Manipur, a state in Northeastern India, has a unique socio-economic and cultural identity shaped by its history, geography and diverse population, and thus Manipur occupied a distinct place in India’s Northeast. Actually, the woes of Manipur are deeply rooted in its complex history, ethnic tensions, and economic disparities. The recent violence, which erupted in May 2023, has its crux in the long-standing tensions between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. The Meitei, who are predominantly Hindu, have historically dominated the state’s politics and economy, while the Kuki-Zo, who are mostly Christian, have felt marginalized and excluded.

The gradual descent of the peaceful state into chaos, marked by intermittent ethnic clashes between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, resulting in casualties, widespread fear and escalating tensions, necessitates a thorough examination of these issues, which have become the need of the hour. On the other hand, it is also being observed that temporary peace proposals have been insufficient, lacking long-term solutions for the marginalized tribal communities; hence it is essential to address the political aspirations of the smaller tribal groups and to bridge the development gaps between the hills and valleys. Besides, the Tribal students in Manipur are protesting, demanding the implementation of the Manipur Hill Areas Autonomous District Council bill. Some groups are pushing for meaningful Dialogue between tribal leaders and the state government. The situation has been exacerbated by the United Kuki National Army, an armed group dissatisfied with civil bodies and other armed groups. Resentment is also growing among Kuki-Zo village volunteers. Media reports indicate widespread discontent and anguish in Churachandrapur, particularly against the Inner Terai Liberation Front (ITLF) and civil bodies, for allegedly sending village volunteers to Myanmar to join the Kuki National Army. This has resulted in casualties and undermined the interests of smaller communities, including the Hmar, Zomi, and others.

The Constitution of India provides special provisions for tribal areas, including the Northeast, through the fifth and sixth Schedules. These schedules aim to protect the rights of tribal communities, including their land, culture and autonomy. However, the implementation of these provisions has been inadequate, and the schedules have not been able to address the deep-seated issues plaguing Manipur.

The 5th Schedule provides for the administration of scheduled areas, including the establishment of autonomous districts and regional councils. While these provisions have the potential to address some of the issues faced by tribal communities, they have been criticized for being inadequate and not providing sufficient autonomy to tribal communities.

The recent appointment of a Governor to the state of Manipur may help to some extent in tackling the deteriorating law and order situation, but it is unlikely to address the underlying issues driving the violence. The Governor’s role is largely ceremonial, and the real power rests with the state government. Moreover, the state government, now led by the BJP, has been accused of being complicit in the violence and has not taken adequate steps to address the grievances of the Kuki-Zo community.

To address the woes of Manipur, a more nuanced approach is needed, one that takes into account the complex history, ethnic tensions, and economic disparities that have contributed to the violence. This may involve: i) Establishing a Truth and Reconciliation Commission to investigate the root causes of the violence and provide justice to the victims; ii) Implementing the 5th and 6th Schedules in a more meaningful way, providing greater autonomy to tribal communities and protecting their land and cultural rights; iii) Addressing economic disparities through targeted development programmes and initiatives that promote economic empowerment and inclusivity; iv) Fostering dialogue and reconciliation between the Meitei and the Kuki-Zo groups, promoting greater understanding and mutual respect;

From the foregoing analysis it is crystal clear that the recent crisis in Manipur is a complex issue with deep-rooted causes, and the violence sporadically took place in the region has resulted in significant loss of life, displacement of people, and destruction of property. Actually, the Manipur problem refers to the complex and multifaceted issues. Firstly we may highlight ethnic tensions. Manipur is home to several ethnic groups including the Meiti, Naga, Kuki etc. These groups have historically had complex relations, with tensions and conflicts arising over issues like land, resources, and political power. Another problem revolves around insurgency and militancy. Manipur has been affected by various insurgent groups, some of which have demanded independence or greater autonomy. These groups have often employed violent tactics, leading to insecurity and instability. Besides, economic under-development is palpable. Manipur is one of India’s poorest states, with limited economic opportunities and infrastructure. This has contributed to widespread poverty, unemployment, and discontent. Human rights concerns are other vital aspects of the crisis of Manipur. There have been allegations of human rights abuses by security forces, including extra judicial killings, torture and enforced disappearances. This apart, administrative and governance issues are also not very rigorous. Manipur’s governance structures have been criticized for being ineffective, corrupt and unresponsive to the needs of the people. Land and resource disputes are other areas wherefrom problems emanate. Manipur is rich in natural resources, including oil, gas, and minerals. However, disputes over land ownership and resource extraction have led to tensions and conflicts. Next important factor is ‘Impact of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act’ (AFSPA) etc. The AFSPA has been in force since 1980 giving security forces sweeping powers to detain, search, and use force. While intended to counter insurgency, the law has been vehemently criticized for its human rights implications.

This may entail Dialogue and reconciliation; encouraging dialogue between different ethnic groups, the government, and other stakeholders to address grievances and work together reconciliation. Economic development and empowerment may be other considerable factors. Implementing initiatives to promote economic growth, create jobs, and empower local communities. Human rights protection is also an utmost need. Ensuring that security forces operate within the bounds of the law, and human rights are protected and respected. Effective governance and administration is essential. Strengthening governance structures, promoting transparency and accountability all are highly needed, and ensuring that the government is responsive to the needs to the people. Addressing land and resource disputes are other vital issues. Establishing clear policies and mechanisms for managing the land and resources must be ensured, along with ensuring that local communities can get benefit from development initiatives. It is also seen that the underlying causes of the conflict include ethnic tensions, disputes over land and resources, and the demand for Scheduled Tribe status by the Meitei community, a predominantly Hindu group that has historically dominated Manipur’s politics and economy. In contrast, the Kuki-Zo community, which is mostly Christian, has felt marginalized, subjugated, and excluded.

The violence was sparked by a row over an affirmative action measure, with the Meitei community demanding Scheduled Tribe status and the Kuki-Zo community opposing it. The situation escalated into clashes, arson, and vandalism, resulting in the deaths of over 258 people and the displacement of over 60000 people. Earlier figures also mentioned over 1000 injured, and 32 missing, 4786 houses were burnt and 386 religious structures were vandalized, including temples and churches. Unofficial figures are higher.

The government’s response to the violence has been criticized for being inadequate and biased towards the Meitei community. The Government imposed a curfew, deployed security forces, and airlifted paramilitary forces to the region, but failed to address the underlying causes of the conflict.
Ultimately, addressing the woes of Manipur requires a sustained effort, commitment, and a willingness to engage with the complex issues driving the violence. Therefore, it requires a comprehensive solution that takes into account the state’s complex history, ethnic diversity and socio-economic challenges. The government needs to address the underlying causes of the conflict, including ethnic tensions, disputes over land and resources, and the demand for Scheduled Tribe status. The government also needs to ensure that justice is delivered to the victims of the violence and that the perpetrators are held accountable. The following key remedies can be proposed for addressing this issue as mentioned above: i) Addressing Underlying Causes; ii) Delivery of Justice; iii) Reconciliation and Rehabilitation; iv) Inclusive Development etc.

(Authors: Dr. Manas Mukul Bandyopadhyay, Associate Professor and Head, (Retired WBES), Political Science, Chandernagore Government College, Chandernagore, Hooghly, WB; Dr. Gouri Sankar Nag, Professor and Head, Political Science, Sidho-Kanho-Birsha University, Purulia, WB)