“Unrest in Manipur: Understanding the Current Crisis and Its Implication”

Manipur, the Land of Jewels, has been in the grip of a political crisis in recent times. The state is known for its rich cultural heritage, scenic beauty, and ethnic diversity, but political instability has been a recurring problem in the state.

The crisis in the state has its roots in the complex ethnic and political landscape of the region. Manipur is home to various ethnic communities, including the Meiteis, Nagas, Kukis, and Pangals, who have historically had competing interests and demands. The state has also been a site of conflict between the Indian government and various armed groups, with some seeking greater autonomy or even independence from India.

The situation in Manipur, with current tribal and non-tribal violence, Scheduled Tribe issue, ILP, illegal immigration from Myanmar and Bangladesh is complex and requires a multifaceted approach to address.

The Meitei community has been demanding the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP), which would regulate the entry of outsiders into the state and also to accord them a ST status, while tribals of the hill districts are all out against government’s move to turn their lands into so-called Reserve Forests/Protected Forests and fear losing identity of minorities and benefits if accorded a tribal status to advanced community of the state.

Scheduled Tribe Issue:

Apparently, going by experts’ views, neither civil societies, pressure groups nor judiciary, but it is the government which makes policy recommendations or decisions on Scheduled Tribe. However, the decision of who should be given Scheduled Tribe status in Manipur should be based on certain criteria and parameters set by the government.

The Scheduled Tribes in Manipur are those communities that have been notified as such by the President of India under Article 342 of the Constitution of India. The criteria for determining a community’s eligibility for Scheduled Tribe status includes their distinctiveness, primitiveness, geographical isolation, backwardness, and overall socio-economic and educational development.

The decision of who should be given Scheduled Tribe status in Manipur should be based on a thorough analysis of these factors, along with inputs from relevant experts, academics, and community representatives. The process should be transparent and consultative to ensure that the most deserving communities are identified and granted the benefits of Scheduled Tribe status.

Ultimately, the government should ensure that the criteria for granting Scheduled Tribe status are applied fairly and objectively to avoid any bias or discrimination.

The Manipur government and civil society groups should also promote inter-community dialogue to foster understanding and promote peaceful coexistence between different communities. This can be done through community meetings, forums, and workshops that provide a safe space for different communities to come together and discuss their issues.

Reserve Forests:

It is not enough for state government to claim property rights over tribal lands in the pretext of protecting reserved areas under Indian Forest Act 1927 which led to eviction of tribals from their homes and land they called theirs.

Turning parts of tribal hill districts into reserve forests, it’s important to consider the potential impact on the local communities. Turning their lands into reserve forests without their consent or involvement can lead to displacement, loss of livelihoods, and conflicts with the government. Instead, the government can work with the local communities to find a sustainable and mutually beneficial solution, such as community-based forest management or eco-tourism.

One of the main reasons for conflicts is the lack of development in tribal areas, leading to a sense of neglect and deprivation. The tribals in Manipur face discrimination and exclusion in various spheres of life. The government should implement affirmative action policies to provide equal opportunities in education, employment, and other sectors.

Illegal Immigration and abnormal growth of population:

Illegal immigration is a complex and sensitive issue that requires a multifaceted approach to address. Manipur government could consider dealing with illegal immigration from Myanmar and Bangladesh and enhancing border security measures to prevent illegal crossings.

To prevent illegal immigration, it is essential to implement effective screening and verification processes for immigrants. The government should also increase public awareness about the negative impacts of illegal immigration. This could include public service announcements, media campaigns, and educational programs that highlight the risks associated with illegal immigration and the importance of legal channels for migration.

Finally, the Manipur government should create opportunities for legal migration. This could include simplifying the visa process, creating employment opportunities, and developing partnerships with businesses that are interested in hiring skilled immigrants.

There is also a continuous flow of migration from rural areas of hill districts to already over-populated capital Imphal for employment and survival.  Therefore, it is expected of government to invest in infrastructure, education, healthcare facilities and create job opportunities in tribal areas to promote economic development and reduce social disparities.

In conclusion, the Manipur crisis has wider implications for the region, as it has the potential to spark ethnic tensions and violence in other parts of the Northeast. The central government has been involved in trying to resolve the crisis, with talks being held with various stakeholders. However, a solution to the crisis remains elusive, and the situation in Manipur remains volatile. Therefore, the government needs to do a lot of homework.

Mathew Rongmei
mrongmei@yahoo.co.in
Zeliangrong Colony, Dimapur