Introduction
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is facing mounting criticism over the prolonged ethnic violence in Manipur. Many now question his leadership. More so because he delayed any public statement. Many ask: Why the silence? And: What now?
1. The crisis unfolds
- Manipur violence began on 3 May 2023, triggered by a court move on affirmative action for Meitei community.
- Clashes erupted between Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups. Soon violence spread.
- By late 2024, official deaths reached 258, displacement crossed 60,000, over 4,700 houses burnt, and 400 churches vandalised Hindustan Times+1AP News+1The Times of India+6Wikipedia+6Wikipedia+6.
2. Modi’s silence and delayed response
For over two months, Modi remained silent. No public comment. No visit to Manipur.
He broke this silence only after widespread outrage over video of mob harassment of women AP News.
He called the incident “shameful” and promised strong action Reuters.
3. Opposition backlash intensifies
Congress and others sharply criticised him.
Mallikarjun Kharge said Modi failed Manipur. He called it an “abject failure” and accused him of ignoring the crisis Indiatimes+14Hindustan Times+14The Financial Express+14.
Kharge accused BJP of using Manipur unrest as political leverage. “The BJP is the matchstick which burnt Manipur,” he wrote Business Standard+1The Times of India+1.
Opposition also noted Modi had not visited Manipur despite ongoing crisis, even as Home Minister Amit Shah had gone there multiple times NorthEast Now+1NorthEast Now+1.
4. Governance breakdown and President’s Rule
The violence led to President’s Rule in February 2025, after the state CM resigned hrw.org+15Wikipedia+15Hindustan Times+15.
As peace remained elusive, 21 MLAs wrote to PM Modi and Amit Shah requesting restoration of popular government Hindustan Times.
5. Human rights, displacement and trauma
- Over 60,000 people were displaced. Many live in camps.
- UN groups and human rights organisations say bias and state inaction worsened the crisis SAMAA TV+2Wikipedia+2The Washington Post+2.
- Churches and temples were attacked. Families remain separated and grieving.
6. Kuki-Zo Council: Demand for dialogue
In late 2024, the Kuki-Zo Council formed. It represents tribes across the conflict zone.
By early 2025, Council leaders met officials in Delhi. They demanded:
- An end to violence as a first step.
- A separate administration for Kuki-Zo.
- Better medical services and peace guarantees SAMAA TV+2Wikipedia+2Wikipedia+2.
7. State and centre push back
Modi and his government defended their record. They pointed to peace measures and developmental work in the region.
The PM highlighted successes in the broader Northeast—roads, rail, energy, and reduction in insurgent incidents by 82% since 2014 The HinduThe Indian Express.
He emphasized India’s Act East policy and spoke of investment in infrastructure. Yet, critics say all these came too late for Manipur.
8. Why the backlash matters
- Modi’s absence unsettles many in Manipur.
- Damage to BJP’s image is growing with national opposition.
- Rising scepticism over central leadership in crisis zones.
- Questions around whether national politics overshadowed local suffering.
9. Where things stand today
Violence continues—though less intense. Unrest remains unresolved. Aid is slow.
The state remains under President’s Rule.
Opposition presses for Modi’s direct intervention.
Calls grow for truth, reconciliation, and justice. Yet peace remains fragile.
10. Deeper analysis
- Transition of leadership: A leader needs presence in crisis. Silence cost trust.
- Governance on edge: State-level BJP leadership faced accusations of bias.
- Ethnic politics: The violence reflects deep divisions. The BJP is blamed for stoking majoritarian views.
- Need for dialogue: Genuine, community-led healing remains absent so far.
Conclusion
The Manipur unrest is a test of leadership.
Modi’s delayed response and silence damaged trust. Many expect more direct engagement now.
The violence revealed deep social and political rifts.
India needs peace, justice, and a new roadmap.
Only then can Manipur heal—and central leadership regain moral ground.
