 |
|
The ongoing conflict in Manipur continues to escalate, with recent violence leaving two people dead in an attack attributed to “Kuki militants.” This attack, utilizing drones and RPGs, has prompted a call for action from Rajkumar Imo Singh, BJP MLA and son-in-law of Manipur Chief Minister Biren Singh. In a letter to Home Minister Amit Shah, Rajkumar expresses frustration with the perceived ineffectiveness of central forces, deeming them “mute spectators” to the violence. He contends that their presence, despite numbering around 60,000, has failed to deter violence or bring peace to the state.
Rajkumar argues that the continued violence, now escalating to drone attacks, necessitates a reassessment of the security strategy in Manipur. He asserts that the deployment of central forces has not yielded positive results, and instead calls for their removal and the empowerment of state forces to take control of the situation. Further, he advocates for a unified command structure under the leadership of the Chief Minister, believing that this would be more effective in restoring peace and normalcy.
Beyond the immediate concern of security, Rajkumar also touches upon broader issues contributing to the conflict’s longevity. He demands the abrogation of Suspension of Operation agreements with Kuki-Zo insurgent groups, alleging their violation of the agreements and complicity in perpetuating violence. Additionally, he calls for a thorough investigation into the source of funding and arms supply fueling the conflict, recognizing that the conflict's persistence necessitates addressing these underlying factors. Ultimately, Rajkumar emphasizes the urgency of initiating political dialogue and engagement between all stakeholders to reach a lasting solution.
This letter highlights the growing frustration among certain segments of Manipur’s population with the current security arrangements. It underscores the need for a comprehensive strategy that tackles not only the immediate security challenges but also the deeper political and socio-economic factors driving the conflict. The calls for a change in approach and the demand for a more active role for the state government in managing security, coupled with the emphasis on political dialogue, suggest a shift in perspective within Manipur's political landscape and point towards the need for a more nuanced and inclusive approach to resolving the conflict.