Kukis, Meiteis, Nagas and Muslims, who historically coexisted in a blend of harmony and tension, overwhelmingly voted in favour of Congress, which won the two Lok Sabha seats, defeating BJP in Inner Manipur in the valley and NPF in the hills.
Analysts say the continuation of the ethnic conflict, albeit sporadically, coupled with perceived negligence from the Centre, fuelled widespread discontent.
The newly elected 50-year-old Outer Manipur MP, Arthur, said he got maximum votes from all communities, “be it from Muslims, Nagas, Meiteis and Kukis”.
Arthur, a singer-turned-journalist-turned-politician, attributed it to people’s understanding “what is reality and the fiction that was sold by BJP. I guess people are informed and they voted for a party that lives in reality”. Inner Manipur winner, 57-year-old JNU assistant professor Akoijam cautioned: “It’s a clear message, don’t take people of this state for granted.”
A significant point of contention has been Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s absence from the state during these trying times. This absence was perceived not merely as a physical absence but as a symbolic neglect of the state’s dire need for attention and intervention from the highest levels of government. In stark contrast, Rahul Gandhi made two visits to Manipur amidst the ongoing ethnic conflict. He met Meities, Kukis, Nagas and Muslims. His presence in Manipur, and his engagement with the issues faced by its people, offered what many in the state felt was sorely lacking from the central leadership.
These visits were not just political manoeuvres but were seen as gestures of solidarity and acknowledgment of the state’s plight.
BJP also sent Amit Shah twice. Once for assessment of the deepening conflict and holding meetings with stakeholders and on the other occasion to campaign for the party. This distinction between the actions of Rahul and Shah became a focal point in the polls, with the electorate viewing Rahul visits as an embodiment of the concern and involvement they year-ned for. The turning point was Rahul’s Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra that started from Manipur’s Thoubal in Jan.