EAM Jaishankar: efforts underway to restore normalcy in Manipur

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has acknowledged ongoing efforts by both the state and central governments to restore normalcy in Manipur, a northeastern state in India. Speaking at the Council on Foreign Relations, he mentioned that one aspect of the problem in Manipur is the destabilizing impact of migrants, but there are also historical tensions. The joint efforts are aimed at recovering seized arms, maintaining law and order, and preventing incidents of violence.

Recently, a group of United Nations experts expressed deep concern over reports of violence in Manipur, particularly targeting women and girls. They urged the Indian government to investigate these incidents rigorously and hold the perpetrators accountable. India rejected these comments as unwarranted.

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Regarding criticisms of India's democracy and freedom by organizations like Sweden's V-Dem Institute and Freedom House, Jaishankar defended his stance, emphasizing that these reports often contain inaccuracies and bias. He criticized them as "self-appointed custodians" who struggle to accept that India does not seek their approval.

International Concerns

The situation in Manipur has raised international concerns, with allegations of human rights violations, extrajudicial killings, and acts of sexual violence. The Indian government's response to these concerns remains a point of contention in the international community.

Jaishankar's comments reflect India's efforts to address internal issues while pushing back against international criticisms it perceives as biased or inaccurate. The situation in Manipur and the broader discussion of India's democracy continue to be topics of interest in the international arena.

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