Six militants arrested in Manipur for extortion

The arrest of two women cadres from the United National Liberation Front (Koireng) in Manipur's Imphal East district is a stark reminder of the persistent and complex internal security challenges plaguing India's northeastern states. This incident, while seemingly localized, encapsulates decades of historical grievances, ethnic tensions, and geopolitical dynamics that continue to fuel insurgency in the region.

The background context of insurgency in Manipur is deeply rooted in its unique history and socio-political landscape. Following its controversial merger with the Indian Union in 1949, a sense of alienation and perceived loss of sovereignty began to fester among sections of the Meitei community, the dominant ethnic group in the Imphal Valley. This discontent, coupled with economic underdevelopment, unemployment, and a perceived threat to indigenous identity, led to the emergence of various militant outfits. The United National Liberation Front (UNLF), formed in 1964, stands as one of the oldest and most prominent Meitei insurgent groups, advocating for an independent socialist Manipur. Over the years, the UNLF has seen splits and the emergence of various factions, with 'Koireng' being one such offshoot, often resorting to extortion, kidnappings, and armed confrontations to fund their operations and press their demands.

In this particular incident, the arrest of two active women cadres highlights not only the continued presence and operational capabilities of these groups but also the increasing involvement of women in militant activities. While the immediate action was taken by security forces (likely a joint operation involving Manipur Police and central forces), the key stakeholders involved are multifaceted. The **Indian Government** and its **security forces** (including the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, and state police) are primarily concerned with maintaining law and order, countering insurgency, and ensuring national integrity. The **militant groups** like UNLF (Koireng) aim to achieve their political objectives, often through violent means, while simultaneously engaging in criminal activities like extortion to sustain themselves. The **local populace** is caught in the crossfire, enduring the socio-economic disruptions, fear, and human rights concerns that arise from both insurgent activities and counter-insurgency operations. **Civil society organizations** often play a crucial role in advocating for peace, human rights, and addressing the root causes of conflict.

This incident matters significantly for India on several fronts. Firstly, it underscores the ongoing **internal security threat** posed by insurgent groups, demanding continuous resource allocation and strategic planning from the government. Secondly, it impacts **national integration** by challenging the authority of the state and fostering separatist sentiments. Economically, persistent instability in Manipur, a key state in India's **Act East Policy** (which aims to enhance connectivity and trade with Southeast Asia, initially known as the Look East Policy since the early 1990s), hinders infrastructure development, foreign investment, and tourism, thus impeding the region's overall progress. Socially, the cycle of violence perpetuates trauma, displacement, and a breakdown of trust within communities. The involvement of women further complicates the social fabric, challenging traditional gender roles and highlighting the deep penetration of militancy into society.

Historically, the state of Manipur has been a 'disturbed area' for decades, leading to the imposition of the **Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), 1958**, which grants special powers to armed forces in such regions. While proponents argue AFSPA is crucial for counter-insurgency operations, critics highlight its controversial provisions, potential for human rights abuses, and its role in alienating local populations. Furthermore, the **Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967**, is frequently invoked to proscribe such organizations and prosecute individuals involved in unlawful activities. Constitutionally, **Article 371C** provides special provisions with respect to the state of Manipur, including the formation of a Committee of the Legislative Assembly consisting of members from the Hill Areas, aimed at addressing regional disparities and protecting tribal interests, though its effectiveness in curbing insurgency is debated. Government policies like the Surrender-cum-Rehabilitation Scheme are also in place to encourage militants to lay down arms and return to mainstream society.

Looking ahead, the future implications include continued **counter-insurgency operations** by security forces, driven by intelligence-gathering and strategic deployment. However, a sustainable solution requires a multi-pronged approach. This involves not only effective security measures but also robust **socio-economic development initiatives** to address the root causes of discontent, such as unemployment and lack of opportunities. Dialogue and peace processes, though complex and often protracted due to the multiplicity of groups and their diverse demands, remain crucial for long-term stability. The stability of Manipur is also intrinsically linked to the regional dynamics, particularly the situation in neighboring Myanmar, which often serves as a sanctuary for insurgent groups. The incident underscores the continuous need for India to balance its security imperative with human rights concerns and foster inclusive growth to truly integrate the Northeast into the national mainstream.