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- Imphal Times Editorial :: September 13 2016 -

The muffled whispers of rumors regarding the desertions and defections of many prominent and battle-weary politicians of the state that has been doing the rounds in various social circles for a while now has been proving to be right so far, and with it, the perception of the general public of politicians being opportunists and unscrupulous profit-seekers are steadily on the rise.

That the upcoming general election which is just round the corner is expected to hold more drama and throw up surprising results has been a foregone conclusion.

The wind of political change that swept the country when Narendra Modi was chosen to lead the country by an overwhelming majority two years ago reflects the yearning of the people for a change and the rising aspiration for action which was sorely lacking during the Congress administration when endless rounds discussions, deliberations and planning led to frustrations and disillusionment in the country.

That the national decision was in large part due to Narendra Modi’s personal charisma and decisive personality was never in doubt, and his hold on the nation has not wavered much.

Cut to our present state- in stark contrast to the general feeling of positivity and elsewhere in the country, Manipur is reeling under waves of discontent and agitations, and the society is feeling hemmed in from all quarters for issues as diverse as those concerning communal identity, reservations of benefits, implementation of welfare schemes just to name a few.

Right now, the mood of the state is one of uncertainty, and an all-pervading feeling of suspicion and distrust has crept in.

The indifferent conduct of the state government bordering on an audacious display of reckless power-trip has made matters worse, and the image of the ruling party considered the safest bet to maintain stability till very recently have taken a heavy beating.

To state that the Ibobi led congress party is floundering would not be way off the mark despite the strong show of normalcy and declarations of improvements in various fields.

What is of growing concern for the general public is the fact that the tried and tested politicians, a number of them still holding their elected positions have been found wanting in the deliverance of their duties, and their increasing defections from the ruling party have signaled the deteriorating confidence and trust in the continued role of the ruling party in the governance of the state.

There is also the ever-present niggling doubt about the role of these defectors or deserters in the coming days. Their motives are clear for everyone to see.

It would indeed be interesting to wait and watch if the wolves in sheep’s clothing can still manage to convince the disgruntled public about their expressed earnestness to continue serving the interests of the public.

This event will also serve as a litmus test for the public who appears to have been jolted out of collective complacency and social inactivity which for long has been abused by the unscrupulous lot employing money and muscle to have their ruthless self-profiteering ways.