Guwahati’s Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla led a significant security meeting today to address law and order issues amidst ongoing ethnic violence in the state. The meeting follows a directive from Union Home Minister Amit Shah to ensure free movement on Manipur’s roads starting March 8, amid escalating unrest primarily between the Meitei and Kuki communities. Since May 2023, violence has resulted in over 250 deaths and 50,000 displaced individuals. With President’s Rule imposed, Bhalla aims to restore peace by dismantling drug networks and recovering weapons. The situation remains critical as the focus shifts towards centralized control and community trust for stability.
Guwahati:
Ajay Kumar Bhalla, the Governor of Manipur, led an important security meeting at Raj Bhavan today to evaluate the law and order situation, highlighting attempts to bring stability back to the violence-affected region.
The meeting saw participation from senior officials such as Chief Secretary PK Singh, Security Advisor Kuldiep Singh, DGP Rajiv Singh, along with high-ranking military and paramilitary leaders. This gathering comes after a significant review session in New Delhi conducted by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on March 1.
Mr. Shah’s instruction to permit unrestricted movement on all roads in Manipur starting March 8 demonstrates the Centre’s commitment to restoring normalcy in a state that has experienced ethnic turmoil since May 2023.
These events unfold against the backdrop of President’s Rule imposed on February 13, following the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh due to rising tensions between two communities.
The predominantly valley-residing Meitei community and the various tribes collectively referred to as Kuki, who are predominant in certain hill regions, have been at odds since May 2023 over issues including land rights and political representation. The conflict has resulted in over 250 fatalities and displaced 50,000 individuals.
With the state assembly currently inactive, Governor Bhalla, who previously served as Union Home Secretary, has been designated to guide Manipur toward a peaceful resolution.
Mr. Shah’s order to open all roads represents a critical measure considering the effective division of the state into areas controlled by the Meitei and the Kuki, where movement has been largely hindered.
This initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to reclaim stolen firearms—more than 4,100 weapons have been returned following Bhalla’s ultimatum—and dismantle drug trafficking networks, illustrating a comprehensive approach to restoring order.
The Centre is also prioritizing the installation of fencing along the Indo-Myanmar border to mitigate illegal cross-border activities associated with the unrest.
On a political note, the directive and today’s meeting indicate a move towards centralized authority under President’s Rule, marginalizing local political entities in favor of prioritizing security and reconciliation.
For a state burdened with profound ethnic divisions, the success of Mr. Shah’s strategy relies on effective implementation and the establishment of community trust.
As March 8 approaches, all attention is focused on Manipur to determine if unrestricted movement can facilitate enduring peace.