Bridging Differences That Divide Manipur     

Resolving the intricate ethnic issues in Manipur requires a delicate balance of inclusivity, dialogue, and understanding among the Meitei, Kuki, Naga, and other communities.

With demands for separate administration, objections over territory inclusion, and contentious Scheduled Tribe considerations, the path to harmony may seem challenging.

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However, through comprehensive approaches that prioritise dialogue, equitable development, and respect for cultural identities, the Government of India and Government of Manipur can navigate the complexities and pave the way for lasting peace and unity in Manipur.

This article explores potential strategies and considerations to address the diverse concerns and aspirations of all communities, aiming for a harmonious and inclusive co-existence.

1. Establish a High-Level Peace Committee:

The Government of India can create a high-level peace committee comprising representatives from the Meitei, Kuki, Naga, and other communities in Manipur. This committee should be tasked with facilitating dialogue, mediating disputes, and finding mutually acceptable solutions.

2. Constructive Dialogue and Negotiations:

The peace committee can facilitate structured and inclusive dialogue sessions between the concerned communities. The discussions should focus on addressing key issues such as the demand for a separate administration by the Kukis, objections from Nagas regarding the inclusion of Naga territories, and the concerns raised by other tribals regarding the ST status demand of the majority Manipuri community. The aim should be to find common ground and build consensus on these contentious matters.

3. Autonomous Territorial Councils:

Consider the establishment of autonomous territorial councils in Manipur to ensure greater representation and self-governance for different communities. These councils can be empowered to make decisions on local matters, including land and resource distribution, cultural preservation, and economic development, within their respective areas of jurisdiction.

4. Resource Allocation and Development:

Implement fair and transparent mechanisms for resource allocation and development projects in Manipur. This should address the concerns of all communities and ensure equitable distribution of benefits, thereby mitigating tensions arising from perceived inequalities. The government can prioritise infrastructural development, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and job opportunities across all regions of Manipur.

5. Constitutional Safeguards and Legal Framework:

Review and strengthen the constitutional safeguards and legal framework to protect the rights and interests of all communities in Manipur. This should include provisions to safeguard the land rights of indigenous communities, protect cultural identities, and ensure equal opportunities for socio-economic development. Engage legal experts, community leaders, and representatives from all communities to ensure a fair and inclusive legal framework.

6. Confidence-Building Measures:

Implement confidence-building measures to foster trust and goodwill among the communities. This can include cultural exchange programs, sports events, joint development projects, and initiatives promoting inter-community dialogue and understanding. Encouraging people-to-people interactions can help break down barriers and build bridges between communities.

7. Disarmament and Rehabilitation:

Launch comprehensive disarmament programs to encourage the surrender and rehabilitation of armed groups in Manipur. Provide vocational training, skill development, and livelihood opportunities for former militants to facilitate their reintegration into society. This step can help reduce violence, create a conducive environment for dialogue, and restore peace and stability.

8. Sustained Engagement and Monitoring:

The Government of India should commit to sustained engagement in the peace process, providing the necessary resources, expertise, and support to ensure its success. Regular monitoring and evaluation mechanisms should be established to assess the progress made and identify any challenges or emerging issues that require attention.

By the way, the imposition of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Manipur at this hour may not be a viable solution to the Meitei, Kuki, and Naga issues. The NRC is a complex process that requires extensive documentation and verification of citizenship, which can lead to exclusion and further exacerbate existing tensions. Instead, it is advisable to focus on dialogue, understanding, and inclusive measures to address the concerns of different communities.

Regarding the indigenous status, it is a complex and sensitive matter. Certain communities claimed that a certain community is not indigenous. Whether or not, it often involves historical, cultural, and socio-political factors. In Manipur, where different communities have varying perspectives on indigenous identity, achieving consensus on the indigenous status may be challenging.

It is crucial for the Government of India to engage with all stakeholders, including community leaders, civil society organisations, and political representatives, to develop a comprehensive roadmap for peace in Manipur. This process will require patience, flexibility, and a genuine commitment to addressing the concerns and aspirations of all communities involved.

Mathew Rongmei

mathewrongmei707@gmail.com

Zeliangrong Village Dimapur, Nagaland