Open Letter to Prime Minister on Crisis in Manipur
- 30th May 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 Urgent Action - Are the Meetei People Being Treated as Second-Class Citizens?

Respected Sir,

Greetings from the World Meetei Council!

We are writing to express our deep concern and anguish over a disturbing development reported through national and local media. It has come to our notice that the Ministry of Home Affairs has categorically conveyed to members of a civil society organization from Manipur that the Government of India is not in a position to open the National Highways for the Meetei people - even after two years-despite the deployment of over 60,000 personnel from the Indian Army and Assam Rifles in the state.

This state of affairs is not only unethical but also deeply unacceptable. It reflects a serious failure in ensuring the fundamental rights and freedom of movement for the people of Manipur.

As Manipur is currently under President's Rule, the state falls under your direct administration. If the Prime Minister of India expresses uncertainty or helplessness in restoring access through national highways, it raises a critical question: How can the people of India, particularly those in vulnerable regions, trust that their safety and rights are secured under your leadership?

The Meetei people, particularly the Vaishnavite Hindu community, have suffered immeasurably due to the prolonged inaction and apparent indifference of the centre. While we acknowledge the presence of security forces, their conduct has, in many cases, appeared to mirror a colonial mindset. The linguistic barrier - given that 90% of Meeteis cannot communicate in Hindi - only worsens the communication gap and disconnect between the security forces and the Meetei population.

It is imperative to recognize that relying solely on reports from security forces will not resolve the ongoing crisis. Sustainable peace and normalcy can only be achieved through a government that understands the local context and psyche of the people.

Therefore, we respectfully urge your esteemed office to:

1. Take immediate and decisive steps to ensure the reopening of National Highways in Manipur.

2. Restore a popular government in the state, which can better understand and address the concerns of the local communities.

3. Empower the state government with the necessary support from the Centre to restore peace, law and order.

Sir, the people of Manipur deserve dignity, justice and equal treatment under the Constitution of India. We implore you to demonstrate your commitment to these values by taking urgent action.

With the highest regards,

Yours sincerely,
Heigrujam Nabashyam
Chairman
World Meetei Council