A New Year's Call for Peace and Justice in Manipur
As the clock ticks closer to the New Year, the People's Progressive Alliance Manipur (PPAM) has issued a strong appeal to the Government of India, urging it to reconsider its policies in Manipur and uphold the state's democratic principles, rule of law, and human rights.
Deepening Divisions and Disruptions
The PPAM has expressed concern over the escalating divisive policies that have deepened the fractures within Manipur's society and administration. The alliance has pointed out that since the outbreak of violence in May 2023, armed militias operating under Suspension of Operations agreements with Indian authorities have disrupted civic life.
- These groups have imposed checkpoints along national highways, restricting free movement and threatening civilian safety.
- They have reportedly extorted motorists, traders, and transport operators, undermining public confidence and contributing to continued instability.
Centralization of Decision-Making
The PPAM has also criticized the imposition of President's Rule on February 13, 2025, which led to the Government of India assuming direct administrative control through the Governor. This centralization of decision-making, the alliance argues, has distanced governance from the people of Manipur at a time when democratic leadership and community-based solutions were urgently required.
Questioning the Legitimacy of Constitutional Provisions
In a broader constitutional context, the PPAM has asserted that Manipur possessed a distinct constitutional and political identity prior to its merger with India. The alliance has claimed that the Manipur Merger Agreement of 1949 took place without popular consent and without a referendum among the people of Manipur.
The alliance has further argued that the Instrument of Accession did not dissolve Manipur's sovereignty, leading to ongoing legal debates over the applicability and legitimacy of constitutional provisions imposed thereafter.
A Call for Peace, Unity, and Accountability
As Manipur prepares to enter the New Year, the PPAM has urged the Government of India to ensure free, secure, and unrestricted movement along all national highways, to protect civilians from coercion, extortion, and violence, and to refrain from empowering armed groups as de facto authorities under the guise of peace agreements.
The alliance has also appealed to all communities in Manipur to embrace peace, unity, and mutual respect, recognizing that the state's strength lies in its multi-ethnic and plural character.
Implications for North East India and Beyond
The ongoing turmoil in Manipur is a reflection of the broader challenges faced by North East India, a region characterized by diverse ethnicities, languages, and cultures. The situation in Manipur underscores the need for inclusive, democratic governance and respect for the distinct identities of the various states in the region.
If left unaddressed, the issues in Manipur could escalate and threaten the stability of the entire region, with potential implications for India's national security and its relations with neighboring countries.
Looking Ahead
As we stand on the threshold of a new year, it is essential that we remember the resilience, dignity, and pursuit of peace and justice by the people of Manipur. It is incumbent upon the Government of India to listen to the voices of the people and take immediate corrective measures to restore peace, harmony, and democratic governance in Manipur.
Only through accountability, respect for legal norms, and genuine dialogue among all stakeholders can we achieve lasting peace in Manipur and the broader North East region.