Rebuilding Trust Obligation in Manipur Required
In an effort to bring peace and prosperity to the conflict-ridden state of Manipur, the Union government has announced several initiatives. The government aims to convince citizens that it will be a fair enforcer of the law, recognising the importance of winning the trust of diverse ethnic, cultural, and geographic groups.
The ongoing rebellion in Manipur involves ethnic groups such as the Meitei, Naga, and Kuki communities. The government is potentially seeking amnesty and a peaceful resolution with these groups, understanding that finding common cause for peaceful living and prosperity is easier with people's trust.
One of the key steps taken by the government is the call for people and rebels to surrender looted weapons by February 26. Around 2,000 of the 6,000 looted weapons have already been returned, with the returned weapons including rifles, grenades, and grenade-launchers. The government's hope abounds for more weapons to be returned, as this would significantly reduce the violence in the region.
The government is also taking steps to erase the scars left by partisan projects of the previous administration. In this regard, N. Birendra Singh has been removed as chief minister, signalling a fresh start for the state.
The governor's call for the return of arms is seen as a platform for the government's next steps. The government is resisting using physical force and instead utilising federalism and democracy to address the root cause of disaffection. A comprehensive crackdown has been announced if the deadline is not met, but the focus remains on peaceful resolution and reconciliation.
The use of armed forces to disarm and subjugate has not successfully resolved disaffection in the past, and the government is aware of this. Massive bloodshed occurs when the root cause of disaffection persists, and the government is committed to addressing these underlying issues to ensure lasting peace in Manipur.
