NuzTube INDIA
President’s Rule has been imposed in Manipur as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) failed to identify a successor to N. Biren Singh for the Chief Minister position, and the Assembly has not convened in over six months. Since mid-2023, central forces have been deployed under the Union Home Ministry’s control to manage law and order amid ongoing ethnic conflicts that began in May 2023.
Although the President’s Rule was declared for expedient reasons, it highlights the BJP’s inability to resolve ethnic differences within the legislature and polity. This imposition provides the Union government an opportunity to ease tensions and address pressing issues, such as the displacement of over 60,000 people. Reports indicate many of these individuals still face severe trauma and loss of livelihoods, necessitating prompt government intervention.
President’s Rule facilitates potential talks between representatives of the conflicting communities, particularly those committed to peace. Legislators can also contribute to reconciliation efforts.
A major concern is the militarization of civil society, with armed groups from both communities, self-described as “village volunteers,” brandishing looted arms. Previous attempts to retrieve these weapons and hold the looters accountable have failed. The conflict’s complexity is further exacerbated by insurgents, either fighting the Indian state or being involved in the Myanmar civil war. A concerted effort by the government, armed forces, and civil society is required to disarm “village volunteers” and address insurgent activities.
The Biren Singh regime was unable to tackle these issues due to perceived bias and stigmatization of the Kuki-Zo community, leading to distrust. To restore peace, the government must distance itself from this legacy, and the Home Ministry should work diligently.
While immediate Assembly elections could address legislative failures and ethnic divisions, restoring the rule of law and extinguishing the climate of fear from violent groups is imperative before any elections can occur.
