Road for restoration

Lukhendro Keisham *

Restoring normalcy is essential to create a conducive environment to talk out the differences. Instead of criticizing and questioning, citizens should contribute their perspectives to help restore calm and serenity in the state. This approach would provide the authorities a better understanding of how to address the ongoing unrest in Manipur that has persisted since May 3, 2023.

1) Immediately halt all forms of violence. Firing in peripheral areas should be strictly monitored. Implement round-the-clock security surveillance in vulnerable areas using both aerial and ground patrols. A curfew under Section 144 of the CrPC could be imposed. Additionally, comb out illegal arm possessions in the state.

2) Call up all the MLAs, MPs and leaders of the entire political parties in Manipur. Meet with them individually or in groups. Utilize the judiciary or constitutional mechanisms to facilitate them to work together. If the State Government is unable to do this, the Central Government should step in.

3) Consult all community leaders and experts. Here too, if the State Government cannot initiate the Central Government should. These are the ones who represent the people at this juncture.

4) Rebuilding homes for all Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) is essential. The government could either reconstruct the homes with a standard design and dimensions or offer financial support for the IDPs to manage the reconstruction themselves. These options should be announced and communicated to all IDPs as soon as possible to provide hope to those whose lifelong earnings were destroyed.

Additionally, the government should initiate permanent deployment of security forces in the neighborhoods with well-armed security watchtowers at all corners. This should include the installation of security fences, round the clock CCTV surveillance and the imposition of Section 144 of the CrPC around the periphery.

To further support the IDPs, the government could also provide a monthly monetary pension for a limited period or until the situation improves. Supply of daily necessities should continue in the same manner as they are at relief camps.

5) Resume intercommunity business activities. Set up business transit points at junctions of both communities, with government authorities monitoring the transactions. Citizens from both sides are equally affected. Farmers who sell their harvest mostly in the valley and those in the valley who draw a major share of their income from the other side are badly hit. Individuals from other communities could also be considered for this initiative.

6) Citizens should temporarily put on hold or refrain from physical rallies and protests that could turn violent. Instead they should engage with the relevant authorities directly through peaceful channels. Any untoward incident could lead to further complications.

Although these ideas may have limitations in practice, I hope they offer valuable insights to help our leaders develop effective strategies for restoring peace and stability in Manipur.