The pressing question before us is whether President’s Rule will bring peace to Manipur. Will it allow both communities to move freely across the state? Can governance under the Governor truly initiate meaningful peace talks? More importantly, is the Central Government genuinely committed to resolving the crisis in Manipur?
By Chittaranjan Meitram
As we reflect on the merger of Manipur with India on September 21, 1949, it is crucial to remember the various terms agreed upon between the Indian government and our Maharaja. Manipur was once a sovereign kingdom with a history spanning over 5,000 years. However, since its merger, the state has experienced President’s Rule eleven times—a reflection of the persistent political instability that plagues our land.
One of the darkest chapters in our history was the tragic incident of June 18, 2001, which erupted following a period of President’s Rule. Now, once again, for the eleventh time, Manipur finds itself under President’s Rule, with the state government placed in suspended animation under Clause 1 of Article 356. It is evident that this crisis is deeply entangled with political maneuvering over the Chief Minister’s seat.
Is Presidential Rule the Solution for Manipur?
The pressing question before us is whether President’s Rule will bring peace to Manipur. Will it allow both communities to move freely across the state? Can governance under the Governor truly initiate meaningful peace talks? More importantly, is the Central Government genuinely committed to resolving the crisis in Manipur?
If the government is sincere in its intentions, how does it plan to negotiate? What concrete steps will be taken to restore peace and harmony? Or will prolonged political uncertainty further destabilize our state? Moreover, are we receiving the full provisions of the Merger Agreement as originally intended?
The Threat to Manipur’s Integrity
It is important to recognize that the demand for a separate administration is not new. While the Kuki tribes have called for a separate administration, the Naga tribes have also long advocated for the idea of Greater Nagaland. In this critical moment, it is imperative to introduce a special constitutional provision ensuring that Manipur’s territorial integrity remains inviolable under all circumstances.
Despite media claims that safeguarding Manipur’s territorial integrity is a priority, there has been no official gazette notification affirming this commitment. Why is this the case? Are we being misled?
The Role of Manipur’s Youth
The youth of Manipur must recognize the urgency of the situation. If we do not rise together now, then when? For too long, we have been treated as though we are not truly part of India. Those who analyze deeply can see that everything is unfolding according to a predetermined script. A state that was once sovereign—merged with India in 1949—is now being treated as if it holds no significance.
If we, the youth, fail to stand for our motherland today, our future generations will suffer. They will curse us for our silence and inaction. We are the leaders of tomorrow, and the time has come for us to unite—both those living in Manipur and those spread across the world. We must never forget our roots, our homeland, and our duty towards it. A single voice can spark change, but what we need now is a united voice
A Call for a Strong Regional Political Party
At this critical juncture, it is high time to establish a strong regional political party—one led by a dedicated and fearless leader who can confront any challenge posed by the Indian establishment. Politics is the most effective tool for transforming society, and it is through a united political movement that we can reclaim our future.
We must never forget that we were once a sovereign nation. The youth of today must rise, organize, and take charge of Manipur’s destiny. The fate of our land rests in our hands. Let us not allow history to repeat itself—this time, we must take control of our own narrative.
To all the youth of Manipur: The time to act is now
(Chittaranjan Meitram is a Youth Political Activist. He can be contacted at chittaranjanmeitram123@myyahoo.com)