To go miles

• The Union government removed N. Biren Singh-led government in Manipur from power and imposed President’s Rule.
• The move was seen as a way to restore normalcy in a state plagued by ethnic strife.
• The government has attempted to control violence by giving a deadline to non-State groups to surrender weapons.
• The government has also attempted to ensure free movement between hill and valley districts by removing blockades.
• However, only a third of the 3,000-odd weapons still missing have been returned, with the majority stolen in and around the Impal Valley.
• The central armed police forces’ attempts to enforce free movement in the hill district of Kangpokpi resulted in violence.
• A civil society organization representing the Kuki-Zo community warns against the move, arguing it will deepen ethnic strife and be resisted by the Naga communities.
• The government must continue seeking talks with both communities, rejecting violence and isolating those making impossible demands.
• The government must emphasize that only the State has the legitimate claim over arms.
• The Union Home Ministry and Prime Minister Narendra Modi must appeal directly to the communities for a restoration of peace and dialogue.