Manipur has become the state that India has forgotten. With the economic blockade in this remote part of India reaching its 100th day, there are increasing signs that the average Manipuri is disillusioned with the apathy of the government, both state and central, towards the welfare of the state and its people.
The infrastructure is negligible and the mushrooming of rampant corruption coupled with alarming extremism and rebel groups ensures that the state is heading towards disintegration. The politicians are helping themselves and law and order is non-existent.
It is not surprising therefore that young Manipuris are looking to find a way out for better prospects in other parts of the country rather than stay back and become victims of their own circumstances brought about by mainstream India's ignorance and neglect.
Manipuris must be made to feel that they are an integral part of a whole instead of being just a part of India's diverse social and cultural fabric. The government must refocus on its intentions to deliver in Manipur. The commitment should not just be plain election rhetoric.
