Manipur Should Rise Beyond Politics: Dr. Thokchom Radheshyam calls for collective effort to restore peace & prosperity

IMPHAL: At a time when Manipur continues to grapple with prolonged violence, deepening social divisions and political disagreements, the recent appeal by Heirok MLA and Manipur Government spokesperson Dr. Thokchom Radheshyam Singh for collective efforts to restore peace deserves attention beyond its immediate political context. His appeal to former Chief Ministers Okram Ibobi Singh and N. Biren Singh, along with all stakeholders, to come forward with constructive suggestions raises a fundamental question: Can Manipur overcome its crisis if every stakeholder continues to assign blame to others rather than contribute towards a solution? The cost of the prolonged conflict has been enormous. Precious lives have been lost, thousands of people have been displaced, homes and properties destroyed, livelihoods disrupted and educational opportunities affected. Beyond the physical destruction, the erosion of trust between communities has become one of the biggest obstacles to restoring normalcy. The uncertainty has also taken a heavy toll on the aspirations of young people, whose education, employment prospects and dreams of building a better future remain under strain. The longer the crisis continues, the greater its cost to Manipur’s social fabric and economic future. Peace cannot be outsourced The argument that peace and harmony are a collective responsibility has considerable merit. Neither the Central nor the state government, nor any external agency, can bring lasting peace unless the people themselves are willing to resolve their differences through dialogue, mutual understanding and reconciliation. When a family faces a crisis, its members must come together to find a solution. It would be unrealistic to expect neighbours to resolve every dispute within that family. Similarly, the people of Manipur must recognise their shared responsibility in rebuilding trust and restoring normalcy. This does not mean that the government can be absolved of its constitutional responsibility to protect citizens, ensure justice and address legitimate grievances. Government accountability and public participation must go hand in hand. Criticism is essential in a democracy, but it must be accompanied by constructive engagement and a willingness to explore solutions. An appeal backed by administrative experience Dr. Radheshyam’s appeal is also significant in view of his professional background. Before entering electoral politics in 2017, he served as an Indian Police Service officer and received the Presidential Police Medal for Gallantry and the Presidential Police Medal for Meritorious Service. He also served in the United Nations system in Bosnia and Herzegovina in a human rights-related capacity. His professional journey exposed him to policing, administration, human rights and international engagement. After winning the Heirok Assembly constituency in 2017, he served as Minister of Education and Minister of Labour and Employment in the first BJP-led government headed by N. Biren Singh. His experience across policing, administration and politics gives his present appeal an additional dimension. More importantly, his acknowledgement that previous governments, including those in which he served as Cabinet Minister and MLA of ruling party, made mistakes that shattered the aspirations of young people is an important admission. His observation that no government can claim to have done everything right, and that accepting mistakes is essential, reflects the kind of political introspection often missing from public discourse. His analogy of fever and medication is equally relevant. Manipur’s problems are well known. Repeatedly identifying the crisis without seriously discussing possible remedies will not take the state towards a solution. The priority must be to create platforms where disagreements can be discussed and practical measures explored. Also Read: “Israel’s Yom Kippur”: Shin Bet chief compares alleged foreign election interference to Oct 7 terror & 1973 war fallout A message that echoes the larger call for social unity Dr. Radheshyam’s appeal also brings to mind the message delivered by the Param Pujaniya RSS Sarsanghchalak, Dr. Mohan Bhagwat during the Vijayadashami address in 2026, particularly his observations on divisions within society, political interests and the responsibility of public leaders. In the address, Param Pujaniya RSS Sarsangchalak observed that divisive ideologies had encouraged people to believe that differences in appearance and identity meant that they were separate from one another, gradually weakening the foundations that had historically held society together. Param Pujaniya RSS Sarsangchalak also cautioned against political leaders allowing electoral ambitions, the pursuit of cheap popularity and selfish interests to overpower prudence and goodwill. An important passage from the address stated: “Whether it is a group within the society leading the agitation, or the government and administration taking action to maintain peace and order, or political leaders playing their part, we must ensure that our actions do not create discord, animosity, resentment, bitterness, or divisions within our one, undivided society.” The address further emphasised that agitations should aim to provide solutions and that public speech, conduct and behaviour must remain within the bounds of the Constitution and the law. These observations have particular relevance to Manipur. In a society experiencing prolonged tensions, political statements, public mobilisation and competing narratives can either create opportunities for dialogue or deepen existing divisions. Political leaders and influential voices therefore carry an enormous responsibility to ensure that their words and actions do not further aggravate the situation. Political differences must not become obstacles to peace Dr. Radheshyam’s specific appeal to former Chief Ministers Okram Ibobi Singh (Congress) and N. Biren Singh (BJP) is particularly relevant. Having governed Manipur for approximately 15 years and eight years respectively, both leaders possess considerable administrative and political experience. Their participation in constructive dialogue could help broaden the political consensus required to address the crisis. Political differences between the ruling establishment and opposition should not prevent experienced leaders from contributing to an issue that concerns the future of the entire state. At the same time, the present government under Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh must demonstrate that its willingness to listen extends beyond statements. Its offer to visit stakeholders and hear their suggestions, if invited, should translate into meaningful engagement, transparent communication and action on legitimate concerns. Peace cannot be built through appeals alone. It requires confidence-building measures, accountability, justice and sustained dialogue among communities. Manipur cannot afford another generation of lost opportunities The […]