Forum unimpressed with Centre's initiative
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, June 17 2023: Forum for Restoration of Peace, Manipur expressed deep concern over the tense situation in Manipur despite deployment of thousands of paramilitary forces and army personnel to control the situation as well as unwanted incidents between the central forces and the agitated population.

The forum also contended that the Union Government taking over Manipur's administration has rendered it a powerless entity.

In a statement, Forum convenor Ashang Kashar noted that for the first time since India's independence Article 355 of the Indian Constitution has been invoked by the Union Government to assume control over a state government, effectively toppling the BJP-led government in Manipur.

It appears that the Union Government is utilising this opportunity as a litmus test for Article 356, to assess its effectiveness.

Central leaders from Delhi are expected to visit Manipur during this constitutional trial, but they will ultimately leave without resolving the situation.

The Union government's unwillingness to contain the unrest and restore peace and normalcy in Manipur has become apparent.

The State Level Peace Committee, formed under the Home Ministry, has been dismissed by the people of Manipur as a farce, indicating that the Union Government is not genuinely committed to achieving peace, it said and alleged that the current state of Manipur is a stage-man-aged scenario orchestrated by the Union Government to ensure the continuance of the BJP Government at any cost.

The so-called Peace Committee, formed under the Home Ministiy, has faced condemnation from all quarters, with its members expressing discontent over being included without prior consultation.

This further indicates the lack of willingness on the part of both the state and Union governments to address the situation.

Amidst these critical circumstances, where the people of Manipur find themselves caught between the devil and the deep sea the need of the hour if for self-preservation.

Instead of resorting to violence, such as burning down houses of elected representatives, the people should to raise their voices in Delhi.

It is crucial for the citizens to refrain from self-inflicted harm and actively contribute to the restoration of peace and normalcy in Manipur, it maintained.

The Forum also appealed to the parties concerned to contribute towards restoring peace and normalcy in the state.

The urgency of the situation demands immediate action to alleviate the suffering of the people and ensure a peaceful future for Manipur, it pointed out.

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