The Manipur State Unit of Shiv Sena, led by M Tombi, has urged Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla to ensure that law enforcement agencies conduct disarmament operations without bias. Speaking to the media in Imphal on Wednesday, Tombi emphasized the need for impartial action against armed groups responsible for unrest in the state.
Allegations of Partiality in Disarmament Operations
M Tombi pointed out that counter-offensives by central and state forces have largely been focused on valley districts, according to media reports. He claimed that most arrests of insurgents, anti-social elements, and recoveries of arms, ammunition, and explosives have taken place in the Meitei-dominated valley regions, while operations in the sensitive hill districts remain inadequate. “The Governor’s initiative to secure illegal arms is a positive step, but operations against disruptive activists and militant extremists must intensify in the hill districts as well,” said Tombi.
He stressed that disarmament must be implemented across all communities to prevent further escalation of violence.
Concerns Over Security and Protection of Meitei Villagers
When asked about the safety of unarmed villagers, particularly from the Meitei community, Tombi expressed concerns about the failure to protect civilians. He warned that if armed miscreants continued targeting unarmed individuals, the Governor would be held responsible for the resulting casualties.
He also strongly condemned recent security force actions against village volunteers, arguing that such moves before a proper deadline could undermine peace efforts and lead to further instability in Manipur. “Security forces should not prematurely target village volunteers before addressing the root cause of the violence,” he cautioned.
Governor’s Disarmament Drive: A Step Towards Normalcy?
Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla has called for the recovery of illegal arms as part of efforts to restore peace and stability in Manipur. His administration has been engaging various stakeholders, including local organizations, security forces, and community leaders, to implement a comprehensive disarmament process.
While the Shiv Sena supports this initiative, M Tombi emphasized that disarmament should not be selective, as partial enforcement could lead to further resentment and conflict.
Security Challenges in Manipur’s Hill and Valley Regions
Manipur has been facing ethnic and insurgency-related conflicts, with various armed groups operating in different districts. The valley regions, predominantly inhabited by the Meitei community, have witnessed multiple operations against insurgents. However, concerns remain about armed groups in the hill districts, where the Kuki-Zo community is concentrated.
Key Challenges in the Disarmament Process:
Presence of multiple armed groups with ethnic and political affiliations Allegations of biased action favoring one community over another Fear of backlash if one side is disarmed while the other remains armed Ensuring the protection of unarmed civilians from militant attacks
Potential Fallout of a Biased Disarmament Process
Tombi warned that if the disarmament drive disproportionately targeted one group, it could worsen existing tensions rather than resolving them. He urged the state and central governments to ensure equal treatment of all armed groups and to intensify operations in the hill districts, where many militants remain active. “A selective approach will only fuel further division and violence,” he added.
A Comprehensive Peace Initiative
For Manipur to achieve lasting peace, experts suggest the following measures:
Unbiased Disarmament: Law enforcement must act equally against all armed groups to ensure fairness. Community Dialogue: Engaging Meitei, Kuki-Zo, and other ethnic groups in discussions on reconciliation. Strengthening Security: Deploying neutral forces to protect unarmed civilians in both valley and hill districts. Economic Rehabilitation: Providing opportunities for former militants and affected civilians to rebuild their lives.
The Shiv Sena’s call for unbiased disarmament in Manipur underscores the importance of a fair and transparent peace process. As tensions persist, the Governor’s approach to law enforcement will play a critical role in shaping the future of the state. Ensuring that all armed groups are held accountable equally is essential to prevent further unrest and restore lasting harmony in Manipur.
