We have discussed the causes of the violence enough; now is the time to discuss solutions

Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s recent remarks on the Manipur crisis have drawn attention to the pressing issue of illegal migration, but they also reveal a narrow perspective that fails to fully grasp the challenges Manipur is facing.
N Biren Singh’s singular focus on illegal migration risks diverting attention away from other critical aspects of the crisis and the desire of the people for a solution. By urging the media to concentrate solely on migration, he inadvertently sidelines these pressing issues, thereby impeding efforts to foster a comprehensive understanding of the situation and take effective action.
While illegal migration is undoubtedly a significant concern, the crisis in Manipur runs much deeper. There are issues pertaining to socio-economic disparities, entrenched ethnic tensions, and governance shortcomings. These are all the causes. Most importantly, the total failure of the state machinery to protect the lives and livelihood of the people which has made the people suspicious of the will of both the central and the state government.
Moreover, N Biren Singh’s suggestion that displaced individuals should simply accept government assistance overlooks the nature of their grievances. Displacement in Manipur often arises from a combination of factors, including violence, insecurity, and loss of livelihoods and employment. Merely offering financial aid for building homes without addressing these underlying issues may prove insufficient in tackling the root causes of displacement and alleviating the ongoing suffering experienced by affected communities.
In addition, N Biren Singh’s critique of international awareness efforts and comparisons to conflicts elsewhere may inadvertently downplay the severity of the crisis in Manipur. While local perspectives are undoubtedly crucial, it is equally essential to acknowledge and engage with the global dimensions of the ethnic conflict. For this, we need to understand the geopolitical dynamics and human rights considerations that cannot be ignored. Otherwise, we will remain frogs in the well, serving the individual interests of incompetent political leaders who control significant monetary and muscle power under whose watch this chaos erupted and the dismantling of the state’s security apparatus and morale of the state police occurred.
Given these issues, a more constructive approach to addressing the Manipur crisis necessitates an acknowledgment of the wide range of problems people have been facing for decades and fostering inclusive dialogue among stakeholders. By recognizing the interconnected political, social, and economic factors at play, stakeholders can collaboratively develop sustainable solutions that tackle the root causes of the crisis and address the diverse needs of affected communities. This approach requires a willingness to listen and engage in meaningful dialogue, and work collectively towards solutions that uphold the rights and dignity of all individuals in Manipur.
Lastly, many times, in discussions, editorials, and interviews, the media has focused on all these issues, including migration. What people want to hear are solutions since we cannot live like this anymore under the thumb of those who call themselves patriots but only threaten the hands which feed them.