Manipur at 'crossroads' — Violence, corruption and much more

Manipur, literally meaning the land of ‘jewel’, seems to be inadvertently losing out its flavor of what it used to be known for in the past. With the state entangling in never-ending conflicts, Manipur, which boasts of its exotic landscapes, today finds itself in ‘complete mayhem’.

The wave of violence not only affects lives but also the ecosystem as most of its scenic ecological assets face the brunt of an unstable lifestyle in the state. It's no longer the 'Switzerland of India'.

While the privileged few, the so-called opportunist leaders, continue to enjoy with impunity, it is the public who bear the brunt of their delinquencies.

Manipur goes to polls in two phases – March 04 and March 08 – with the first phase involving 38 constituencies and the second phase involving 22 constituencies.

Like any other state in the country, Manipur faces a number of poll problems, but what makes the state different are the frequent bandhs, protests and economic blockades, besides others.

The creation of seven new districts by the Okram Ibobi Singh-led Congress government brought life to a complete standstill in the state. The move was opposed by the United Naga Council (UNC) which imposed an economic blockade on November 01, 2016 (and is still ongoing).

This has resulted in steep inflation and the shortage of food, fuel, medicines and other essential commodities.

What’s even worse is that the state government’s move to carve out seven new districts in the hill areas has ignited old animosity between the plains (Meiteis) and the hills (Tribes).

Yet, the controversial Armed Forces (Special Power) Act (AFSPA), which has been imposed in Manipur since September 1980 to tackle lawlessness and insurgency issues still remains a major concern for the northeastern state.

‘Iron Lady’ Irom Chanu Sharmila​, who fasted 16 long years against the draconian act, said she decided to join politics as she believes that no politician shall repeal it. After ending her hunger strike last August, she announced that she would contest the elections and vowed to repeal the AFSPA from the state.

She is contesting from Thoubal, the home constituency of Ibobi. It may be noted that she launched her political party named Peoples’ Resurgence and Justice Alliance in October 2016.

It’s a bitter truth but corruption has been a monolithic monster in Manipur for years with the so-called leaders abusing public office for their own gains. In other words, corruption is omnipresent and has actually become a culture. Nepotism, embezzlement, and bribes are nothing new in recruitment for government jobs.

The state is witnessing a rapid rise in unemployment even as many youths, including the educated ones, deserting their native place in search of livelihood and opportunities in other states. Of course, corruption, bribe, and unemployment go hand-in-hand.

Perhaps, issues pertaining to the Inner-Line Permit (ILP) and insurgency are other major concerns which will determine the way people vote in this election.

In the light of the current context, it`s high time that citizens elect a new deserving party which can perform its duties profoundly, legally and safeguard the rights of the people. For many, seeking an alternative to the Congress, which is in power for the last 15 years, has become the sole motto of this election.

If a new political party is elected to the power, will it be able to eliminate the prevailing problems systematically and bring about a change in governance? Will it succeed in mending the communal disharmonies seeded by its predecessor? Will it fulfill promises and regain the trust of the people? These are only some of the burning questions people have in their mind.

The present situation in Manipur is a matter of the utmost concern, but many doubt if there would be 'free and fair' polls amidst deteriorating law and order condition in the state.

It will take years to heal the wounds of the powerless masses, but what matters most to the people at the moment is the restoration of law and order by the new government.