Appeal for a Way Forward in Manipur
- 12th April, 2025 :: World Meetei Council -

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To
Hon'ble Shri Narendra Modi
The Prime Minister of India
New Delhi, India

Subject: Appeal for a Way Forward in Manipur – Kind Attention Invited

Hon’ble Sir,

Greetings from the World Meetei Council.

At the outset, we express our appreciation for your government’s efforts to restore peace and normalcy in Manipur, particularly following the imposition of President's Rule on February 13, 2025.

1. The violence that gripped the state has largely been brought under control since the imposition of President’s Rule.

2. The recovery of arms from the Meetei public has been commendable, though similar actions are yet to be effectively implemented in Chin-Kuki-dominated areas.

3. We acknowledge the Ministry of Home Affairs’ initiative to facilitate dialogue between the communities, particularly the meeting held in Delhi on April 5, 2025.

The proposed six-point draft agreement - addressing, among other things, the resettlement of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and the assurance of free movement on national highways - was a positive step forward.

In that meeting, one side agreed to the Government’s proposal. However, the Chin-Kuki representatives sought time to consult their people and later issued a public statement rejecting the proposal. They reiterated their demands for a Union Territory or Separate Administration and refused to allow movement of the Meetei community on national highways.

It is disheartening that even after nearly two years, the Centre continues to maintain that this is an issue between two communities and that an agreement must emerge from mutual understanding. With due respect, this logic appears flawed.

When communal tensions arise between Hindu and Muslim communities in other major Indian states, does the Centre take a similar stance - waiting for mutual agreement while violence continues? Surely not. Then why this approach in Manipur?

The fundamental question arises - where is the Indian state? If the state cannot act decisively to protect its citizens, should the people of Manipur be left to resolve the matter on their own?

Historically, Manipur is an ancient and sovereign kingdom in South East Asia with a proud legacy. Had Manipur been an independent nation, this issue could have been resolved far more swiftly and effectively.

We regret to state that the present Government of India has failed Manipur miserably. The people have suffered immensely. Progress has stopped and while the rest of the country moves forward - crushing the aspirations of an entire generation.

The World Meetei Council wishes to be real. The continued failure of the Centre must not further victimize Manipur and pull it out of the national developmental race.

Therefore, we urge the Government of India to act decisively and reaffirm that Manipur is indeed an integral part of India. To begin with, we earnestly request that the national highways be opened and secured without further delay.

With the highest regards,

Heigrujam Nabashyam
Chairman
World Meetei Council