MORE than two years after large-scale ethnic violence first engulfed Manipur, the state continues to experience recurring unrest, raising serious questions about the effectiveness of the Indian government’s approach to restoring peace and stability. Fresh incidents of arson, civilian casualties and displacement demonstrate that the underlying drivers of the conflict remain unresolved despite repeated assurances from New Delhi.
Recent reports indicate that armed attacks in Kamjong district resulted in houses being burned, fatalities and the displacement of dozens of families. Such incidents reinforce concerns that security measures have struggled to prevent repeated outbreaks of violence. While central and state authorities have deployed security forces and announced multiple initiatives, recurring clashes suggest that these efforts have not produced lasting stability.
A key vulnerability lies in the government’s inability to address the political and ethnic divisions that continue to fuel the conflict. Analysts have argued that a predominantly security-focused response cannot substitute for sustained political dialogue, confidence-building measures and inclusive governance. Without addressing grievances among affected communities, the risk of renewed violence remains high.
The humanitarian consequences have also become increasingly severe. Thousands of residents have experienced repeated displacement, loss of property and disruption of livelihood since the crisis began. Schools, businesses and public services have faced prolonged interruptions, placing additional pressure on already vulnerable communities. Continued instability has also affected investor confidence and slowed economic activity in the region.
Questions have also been raised about coordination between the central and state governments. Critics argue that delayed decision-making, inconsistent policy implementation and limited administrative capacity have reduced the effectiveness of crisis management. Frequent security incidents despite heavy deployments have contributed to perceptions that the state has yet to regain complete control over the situation.
Another challenge is the erosion of public trust. Repeated cycles of violence despite official assurances have weakened confidence in institutions responsible for maintaining law and order. Restoring credibility requires not only improved security but also transparent investigations into violent incidents, accountability for those responsible and meaningful engagement with all affected communities.
The continuing unrest also carries wider strategic implications. Persistent instability in a sensitive border state can create long-term governance, economic and security challenges that extend beyond Manipur itself. Sustained conflict risks diverting resources, undermining development and complicating efforts to promote regional stability.
The situation demands accountability, urgent civilian protection and a political solution rooted in justice and reconciliation. The Modi government’s failure to address alienation, insecurity and community grievances has allowed Manipur’s crisis to deepen, while its force-heavy approach continues to expose India’s widening internal fault lines.
—The writer is contributing columnist.
