Merging perspectives

With the statement of the All Tribal Leaders Consultative Committee laying down the points of contention and opposition for the recently passed bills, namely the Protection of Manipur People’s Bill, 2015, Manipur Land Revenue and Land Reforms 7th Amendment Bill, 2015 and Manipur Shops and Establishments Second Amendment Bill, 2015 from their viewpoint after an exhaustive deliberation with the participation of the representatives of almost the plethora of tribal communities either considered or having allegiance to the Naga and the Kuki tribes and their organizations, it is now high time the differing parties take steps to come to the negotiation table and lay down their side of the argument or points of concern to the three bills and make an earnest effort to bring the issue to its’ logical conclusion. The state government need to start walking the talk and initiate the process at the earliest since the people of Manipur is still on tenterhooks as to the possible outcomes of this simmering tension. Needless to say, it is the common public, be it in the hills or the valley that has been bearing the brunt thus far, with the well-heeled and the connected lot having it easy till now. Mother nature, as if on cue, decided to join the melee, resulting in a state where nothing makes sense, socially, politically nor financially. We are still trying to find our foothold after the paralyzing agitations and disruptions. We are also still reeling under the burdens of being located in an area not conducive to smooth transport and communication facilities or amenities. Soaring prices and scarcity of essential commodities, many of which are man-made still continues to effect normal life. Students, the future and hope of this estranged region have been made to suffer because of the adamancy of a few leaders to relent and embrace the changes sweeping the state, just as is happening in every part of the world. Notions of superiority, discrimination and social injustice have been played to the public for undeclared stakes. Interpretations suggest an inclination for the parties on opposing sides of the spectrum to highlight points which victimize them or their communities, whether real or conceived. The turn of events regarding the real meaning and implications of the bills points to a lacuna, whether in the drafting or in the detailing of the points, as has been pointed out and discussed. The only plausible and rational step forward is to come together and chalk out a lasting and amicable solution, not as a stop-gap measure, but as a guiding principle that can endure future social hiccups. We cannot afford to look at the world through the myopic social lens anymore. It is time for all of us to join resources and march towards a better future. Together.