WMC expresses deep concern over MHA's reply
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 30 2025: The World Meetei Council (WMC) has expressed deep concern and anguish over the Ministry of Home Affairs' (MHA) assertion that resumption of free movement for all communities on National Highways in Manipur is going to take some time.

The MHA recently conveyed to members of a civil society organisation from Manipur that the Government of India is not in a position to open the National Highways for Meetei people even after two years and deployment of over 60,000 Central security forces.

This state of affairs is not only unethical but also unacceptable.

It reflects a serious failure in ensuring the fundamental rights and freedom of movement for the people of Manipur, the WMC said in a memorandum submitted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

It said, "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 to 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, the WMC said.

It asserted that the conduct of security forces 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, it said.

The WMC then urged the Prime Minister to take immediate and decisive steps to ensure the reopening of National Highways in Manipur; restore a popular Government in the State, which can better understand and address the concerns of the local communities and empower the State Government with the necessary support from the Centre to restore peace, law and order.

The people of Manipur deserve dignity, justice and equal treatment under the Constitution of India, it added.

Comment