Former External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid has delivered a stark warning about the ongoing crisis in Manipur, stating that the persistent violence and the government's handling of the situation have significantly damaged India's international reputation. The senior Congress leader expressed deep concern about how the world perceives India due to the prolonged ethnic conflict that has gripped the northeastern state.
Diplomatic Fallout of Manipur Unrest
In his assessment, Khurshid emphasized that India's global image has taken a serious hit because of the continuing violence in Manipur. Having served as the country's external affairs minister from 2012 to 2014, he brings considerable diplomatic experience to his evaluation of the situation. The former minister pointed out that foreign governments and international organizations are closely monitoring how India manages internal conflicts and protects human rights.
The ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities, which began in May 2023, has resulted in significant casualties and displacement. Khurshid noted that the prolonged nature of the conflict and the apparent inability to restore normalcy have raised serious questions about governance and crisis management capabilities.
Government's Handling Under Scrutiny
Khurshid did not mince words when discussing the central and state governments' response to the crisis. He highlighted what he described as a failure in leadership and coordination between different levels of administration. The former minister expressed particular concern about the impact on vulnerable populations, including women and children, who have borne the brunt of the violence.
The political veteran, who has been part of numerous Congress-led governments, suggested that the current administration had underestimated the complexity of the ethnic tensions in Manipur. He stressed that immediate confidence-building measures and meaningful dialogue between communities are essential for any lasting solution.
Broader Implications for Indian Democracy
Beyond the immediate humanitarian concerns, Khurshid warned about the long-term consequences for Indian federalism and democratic institutions. The situation in Manipur, he argued, represents a test case for how the Indian state addresses regional conflicts while maintaining its constitutional commitments to all citizens.
The former minister also touched upon the economic implications of the ongoing unrest, noting that development projects and economic growth in the strategically important northeastern region have been adversely affected. He called for a comprehensive approach that addresses both security concerns and the underlying socio-economic issues fueling the conflict.
Khurshid's comments come at a time when international human rights organizations and foreign governments have expressed growing concern about the situation in Manipur. His assessment adds weight to the argument that the crisis has implications beyond India's borders, affecting how the country is perceived as a rising global power and democratic model.
As the violence in Manipur approaches its first anniversary with no permanent solution in sight, Khurshid's warning serves as a sobering reminder of the urgent need for political resolution and reconciliation. The former minister's critique underscores the broader challenges facing Indian democracy and its international standing amid persistent internal conflicts.
