The conditions put forth by the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) for dialogue regarding the ongoing crisis in Manipur have raised serious concerns about their real intentions. The insistence on preconditions, particularly those that challenge the territorial integrity of the state, is not only detrimental to peace efforts but also reveals an agenda that seeks to Balkanize Manipur. Such demands must be scrutinized, as they stand in direct opposition to the repeated assurances given by the highest echelons of India’s leadership, including the Prime Minister and the Home Minister, that the political and territorial integrity of Manipur will remain protected.
Despite these assurances, the silence of the Government of India on CoTU’s conditions is troubling. The lack of a strong official response raises suspicions about a hidden agenda at play. If the central government is genuinely committed to restoring peace in Manipur, it must assert its stance unequivocally. Allowing a group to dictate the terms of dialogue by placing divisive conditions is a dangerous precedent that undermines the very principles of governance and constitutional democracy.
It is widely acknowledged that peace cannot be restored without dialogue. However, the conditions for such discussions must be aligned with the principles of the Indian Constitution, ensuring that governance mechanisms function properly and that the fundamental rights enshrined in Articles 14, 19, and 21 are upheld for all citizens. The right to equality, freedom of movement, and the protection of life and personal liberty are sacrosanct and should form the cornerstone of any negotiation process. Moreover, the conditions proposed by CoTU seem to prioritize political aspirations over the immediate need for stability and harmony in the region. Instead of fostering an environment conducive to peace, these demands appear to serve the interests of a few at the expense of the larger population of Manipur. The dialogue process should be inclusive, aimed at unifying rather than dividing communities.
One of the most pressing issues that must be addressed before any peace talks commence is the disarmament of illegal weapons. The proliferation of arms has fueled the ongoing violence, making it imperative for the government to take decisive action in seizing these weapons from Kuki militants under SoO (Suspension of Operations) and other armed entities. It is important to note that the SoO agreement with the KNO and the UPF lapsed in February last year, and there has been no official statement regarding its extension. The failure to enforce the disarmament of these groups not only emboldens them but also perpetuates lawlessness and instability in the state. If the government is truly serious about restoring peace, it must prioritize law enforcement actions to neutralize any threats posed by armed groups. Without addressing this fundamental issue, any dialogue will be futile, as the presence of illegal arms continues to pose a significant threat to both civilians and security forces.
The government must make it clear that any dialogue aimed at peace in Manipur must be unconditional. Allowing any faction to set terms that compromise the integrity of the state or the constitutional rights of its people is a dangerous path. The focus should be on addressing the grievances of all communities, ensuring economic and political rights, and upholding democratic values. The central government must also ensure that the governance machinery in Manipur functions effectively. This includes restoring law and order, addressing the concerns of all communities, and implementing measures to promote economic development and social harmony. The crisis in Manipur cannot be resolved by pandering to the demands of a single group while neglecting the aspirations and rights of others.
The need for dialogue in Manipur is undeniable, but it must be rooted in principles of justice, equality, and constitutional integrity. The central government must take a firm stand against any attempts to fragment the state or undermine its governance. Unconditional dialogue, coupled with the seizure of illegal weapons and the restoration of law and order, is the only viable path to lasting peace. Any deviation from this approach will only serve to prolong the suffering of the people of Manipur and deepen the divisions that have already caused immense damage. The time for decisive action is now, and the government must rise to the occasion to safeguard the future of the state.