Northeast Desk, 1st October: In a recent address at the Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2024, Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi spoke about the complex security situation in Manipur and the related challenges emerging from Myanmar. Referring to the ongoing conflicts, he remarked humorously, “Ek ke saath ek free,” indicating that while Manipur faces significant issues, similar problems have begun to surface across the border in Myanmar.
General Dwivedi acknowledged that although the situation in Manipur is presently stable, underlying tensions remain. He traced the origins of the conflict back to 2023, which escalated from a rumor concerning the burning of a gate commemorating an Anglo-Kuki war centenary. He dismissed this as mere rumor-mongering that ignited widespread violence, emphasizing that the region is still in a stabilization phase. “Over a period of time, it has become a battle of narratives, leading to polarization between communities,” he explained. He highlighted that the number of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) had surged to 60,000 but had since decreased to below 40,000 due to efforts to stabilize the area.
The Army Chief also pointed out the alarming trend of weaponization within society, noting that looted arms have contributed to the tensions. “Women-led and underground organizations have emerged for defensive purposes,” he stated. To address the ongoing conflict, he called for a ‘whole of nation’ approach to restore trust among citizens and mitigate tensions.
General Dwivedi elaborated on the military’s response, stating that approximately 126 combined columns of the Army and Assam Rifles are actively deployed in the state alongside various stakeholders to help stabilize the situation. He acknowledged that it would take time to mend social fractures and restore peace, as these processes are complex and require patience.
On the recovery of weapons, he reported that security personnel have managed to reclaim about 25% of the total arms that had been looted during the unrest. He also expressed concern over the proliferation of false narratives within the state, particularly those related to Valley Based Insurgent Groups (VBIGs) allegedly receiving support from external sources. He reiterated the importance of dismantling these misleading narratives, stating that security forces had found no evidence to support claims of bomb drones or infiltrating anti-national elements.
Regarding the humanitarian aspect, General Dwivedi addressed the influx of displaced individuals from Myanmar into Mizoram and Manipur. He explained, “As Myanmar faces its own challenges, the displaced people naturally seek refuge in peaceful regions like Mizoram and Manipur. They come unarmed, looking for shelter, and India will ensure that they receive the necessary support, food, and shelter as long as possible.”
General Dwivedi’s statements reflect the Indian Army’s commitment to addressing both the security concerns in Manipur and the humanitarian needs arising from the situation in Myanmar, underlining the complex interplay between national security and regional stability.
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