Unsteady

• Over three months have passed since President’s Rule was declared in Manipur, despite a failed attempt to de-escalate tensions in the ongoing ethnic conflict.

• Significant reduction in gun violence and arson has been observed, with some looted weapons returned and soldiers no longer using sophisticated weapons.

• However, the free movement of people and goods across highways and between hills and valleys continues to be impeded.

• The hostility between the two communities at the center of the conflict has not thawed, causing displacement and loss of homes.

• An incident in the Imphal valley in May led to protests, with security personnel hiding the state’s name on a State transport bus, causing antagonism among civil society groups.

• The Union government must disarm insurgent and chauvinist groups, and send a message that these groups will not represent the communities in peace and political initiatives.

• A stronger commitment to implementing the rule of law and focusing on rehabilitating victims of the conflict is needed.

• Calls for the restoration of the State Assembly have been made, with some MLAs claiming majority support for a fresh iteration of an NDA government.