Political Solution in Manipur: Need for Change in Leadership

• Over a year and a half since ethnic violence erupted between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities in Manipur, the state has seen sporadic but intense incidents of violence.

• The violence has become entrenched in the social fabric of the State, leading to calls for retribution against entire communities.

• The situation has been managed by armed non-state actors, some of whom are supported by elected representatives, while civil society groups are marginalised.

• The Union government, including Chief Minister N. Biren Singh and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has failed to take responsibility or implement meaningful solutions.

• The role of security forces is important, but political will and dialogue are required for a political solution.

• The Union government’s refusal to consider a change in leadership, suggested by the Bharatiya Janata Party’s ally, the National People’s Party (NPP), has allowed the situation to fester.

• A political solution based on consensus and compromise is impossible with a government headed by a partisan politician who seeks to benefit from communal polarisation.