District reversal - Restructure for State integrity

Birendra Laishram *

In the year 1961, the State of Manipur existed as a single district, structured into ten distinct subdivisions: Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishenpur, Thoubal, Ukhrul, Mao & Sadar Hills, Tamenglong, Jiribam, Churachandpur and Tengnoupal.

This configuration allowed for a localized governance of these subdivisions, each contributing to the social, cultural, and political fabric of the State. However, in the wake of a major district reorganization that took place in November 1969, the previously unified structure of Manipur was significantly altered.

The State was effectively divided into five separate districts based on administrative conveniences less considering various geographic and demographic considerations. Manipur North encapsulated the areas of Mao and Sadar Hills, supporting a population of 1,04,175 individuals.

Meanwhile, Manipur West encompassed the district of Tamenglong, with a more modest population of 44,975. On the southern front, Manipur South emerged, which included Churachandpur alongside the hilly regions of Jiribam, thereby totaling a population of 98,114.

The heart of Manipur, known as Manipur Central, was composed of Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishenpur, Thoubal, Tengnoupal, and certain parts of Jiribam, boasting a notable population of 7,63,260. Lastly, Manipur East was represented by Ukhrul, with a population of 62,229 individuals. The grand total of the population according to the census conducted in 1971 was recorded at 10,72,753, reflecting the diverse and vibrant demographics of the State.

With this background, questions inevitably arise concerning the wisdom exhibited by the elite committee responsible for the district reorganization of 1969. A particular point of contention is the decision to allocate specific villages located in the hilly regions of Jiribam to Churachandpur. This decision has raised concerns about the administrative challenges that such an arrangement has vividly presented.

From an administrative convenience standpoint, the alignment of the hill villages under the jurisdiction of Churachandpur and the valley villages of Jiribam under Imphal East appears to be illogical and impractical, a decision that reflects a deeper, troubling ethnic division within the State.

Geographically speaking, the hill villages are primarily positioned on elevated terrains, which contrast sharply with the valley areas that are situated in lower regions characterized by flattened landscapes and their proximity to rivers.

The committee tasked with this reorganization may have overlooked the inherent complexities of the terrain, failing to acknowledge the fact that much of the district valley land was considered as hill district which is more that 10 percent of the area of valley district in Churachandpur only.

There are many valleys in the hill districts such as Khuga valley; Leishun valley; Behiang valley; Leizangphai valley; Tuilaohai valley; Khoupum valley; Sajik Tampak; Hmuntha Tampak; Monglham Molphei Tampak which are all included in the hills area thereby highlighting the geographical disparities that exist within the State.

Reversal of district formation will be able to give a chance to relook such disparities.

Considering Manipur's distinctive geographical and cultural context, characterized by its proximity to international borders and the presence of a wide array of ethnic communities inside the State and outside the border like neighbours, it becomes increasingly important for political leaders and elites in the region to embrace a governance style that is much more nuanced and sophisticated compared to their counterparts located in the central portion of India.

The growing calls for the reinstatement of previous district structures are indicative of a much larger and more profound demand for administrative equity, highlighting the need for a sincere acknowledgement of the various socio-cultural identities that exist within the State and beyond the border.

In this delicate and complex social landscape, any community arrangements and administrative strategies thus devised must take into account and genuinely respect the unique needs, aspirations, and cultural heritage of the diverse groups that collectively constitute Manipur's populace.

By doing so, there is a greater likelihood of fostering harmony and cooperation among the different communities, ultimately leading to a more inclusive and equitable governance framework that is sensitive to the multicultural fabric of the State.

The reorganization of districts should therefore be examined not merely from the standpoint of administrative efficiency, which often emphasizes logistics and resource allocation, but rather, it must be mapped against the intricate socio-political realities that define the State.

The deliberate segregation of hill and valley populations clearly indicates a negligence of the deep-rooted ethnic and cultural identities present among the residents, which must be taken into serious consideration during governance decisions.

The actions taken by the committee could be interpreted as a significant invitation to address the unique needs of different communities, rather than simply imposing arbitrary enforcements of boundaries that lack sensitivity to local contexts.

Looking ahead, it is crucial that any effort to reorganize these districts must place a high priority on actively engaging with local communities. This entails recognizing their historical contexts and fostering an inclusive sense of belonging that is inherently rooted in their lived experiences.

It is the responsibility of political leaders to create robust platforms for dialogue, ensuring that governance authentically reflects the multifaceted identities that exist throughout Manipur. Such engagement can effectively cultivate an inclusive society, where every individual feels represented and valued, thus promoting a sense of unity within the diversity rather than reinforcing divisions that have historically plagued the State.

In order to effectively apprehend infiltrators and illegal migrants, it is essential that district headquarters, or any other authorized body designated for this purpose, be strategically situated in the central district. This central location would enable these authorities to efficiently keep records and issue official documents that differentiate between original settlers and those who have migrated illegally.

Furthermore, it is also imperative that a special Government package be requested to provide comprehensive support for e-governance initiatives, which are crucial for streamlining processes and ensuring transparency in managing migration and settlement issues.

This dual approach will not only enhance the ability to identify and manage the population within the district but also improve overall operational efficiency through technological advancements.

In conclusion, the State of Manipur should strive towards establishing a governance structure that not only encompasses but also emphasizes meaningful community involvement. This approach encourages cooperation and nurtures trust among the diverse populations that inhabit the region.

By wholeheartedly acknowledging the rich cultural fabric that defines Manipur, political leaders will be better positioned to guide the State toward a future where all identities are not just recognized but embraced and integrated within the collective narrative of this vibrant community.

It is this journey that promises to foster greater harmony and understanding among the various groups that call Manipur their home, ultimately leading to a more equitable and unified State.