Manipur, a rude reminder of northeast tensions

Source– The post is based on the article “Manipur, a rude reminder of northeast tensions” published in the “The Indian Express” on 12th June 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- Security

Relevance- Issues related to security in northeast region

News– Violence in Manipur has been going on for over a month now. It has claimed well over 100 lives and displaced thousands more.

How is the northeast still a divided region?

There has been improved communications, better transit facilities, and support for the special needs of the region. But there does still exist a divide between the tribes and plains people within the region.

In the northeast, there is the presence of ethnic sub-nationalism and identity politics in an aggravated form. Ethnic allegiance had been in conflict with mainstream nationalism. Ethnic identities still overshadow all other considerations.

Consolidation efforts by different tribal entities were resulting in subterranean pressures. The result is that many settled issues seem to have been reopened. This applies especially to Manipur.

What are some facts about conflict in Manipur?

The confrontation between Meitei versus Kuki-Naga ultra-radicalism needs to be viewed in the larger context of the conflict between the plains Meiteis and the Kuki-Mizo-Chin-Zomi-Naga hill tribes.

Meitei are seeking to consolidate their position within Manipur and across the region, in opposition to the Kukis, Mizos and other tribes.

The Meiteis may lack a significant militaristic profile. But, the Meiteis has developed a strategy of networking with other northeastern resurgent outfits, and with Maoist groups.

The polarisation between the Meitei, and the other tribal communities, in Manipur appears irreconcilable. Relocation of the two communities is taking place vigorously.

The demand for a separate administration as a prelude to the division of the State is currently gaining momentum.

What are the steps taken by the central government in the context of Manipur?

The Home Minister has announced a judicial probe into the ethnic violence and a three-member committee headed by a judge. He has proposed the creation of a unified command to oversee security in the State.

The announcement of a Central Bureau of Investigation inquiry into specific incidents of violence is a welcome measure.

The changing of the Director General of Police on grounds of ineffectiveness may heighten the gap between the Meitei and Kuki communities. He belongs to Kuki community

What are the steps needed to be taken by the central government to resolve the conflict?

Northeast is still a volatile region. It is in the process of changing. The process of achieving a proper equilibrium requires both sensitivity and ‘out of the box’ thinking.

Centre needs an ‘optimal positioning’ even if it may seem like giving far too many concessions. This demands innovative thinking.

Understanding cultural factors is critical. The Meitei versus Tribal divide is both a cultural and sociological phenomenon.

A solution demands a combination of adjusting to realities. There is a need to understand the moral imperatives of the numerous tribal communities in the northeast.

The region is home to different cultures often confronting each other. Delhi has consistently avoided an adversarial policy. It has sought dialogue. This is still the best remedy.

All communities across the region crave ‘security’. The impression that Delhi is neutral in any conflict must be properly communicated. Delhi should be seen to act based on overreaching moral principles.

A solution to the Manipur conflict in quick time is important. Otherwise, it could aggravate centrifugal tendencies in the region.