The Kukis and Meiteis in Manipur, divided by ethnic violence for nearly a year, unite in their belief that now is not the time for Lok Sabha elections in the state. The violence has claimed over 200 lives and displaced around 50,000 people, deeply polarising Manipur along ethnic lines.
Elections for two Lok Sabha seats are scheduled for April 19 and 26. However, with both communities living separately and refusing to co-exist, questions arise about the timing and relevance of these elections. Lhaineilam, a Kuki coordinator in a relief camp, emphasises the demand for a separate administration for the Kuki Zo community, expressing scepticism about the possibility of voting across ethnic lines.
The Kukis have declared a boycott of the polls, while some are still contemplating abstaining from voting. A Kuki academician questions the timing of the elections amidst the ongoing unrest and doubts any positive change post-elections. Meiteis, devastated by the violence, question the feasibility of voting when their lives have been set back by decades.
Outer Manipur, with a significant Naga population, has all Naga candidates this election, with no Kuki representation following pressure group calls. Displaced people, however, will have the opportunity to vote from relief camps, with special polling stations set up for them.
The Election Commission faces calls for postponement, with the Delhi Meitei Coordinating Committee seeking intervention due to the abnormal situation in the state. Amidst the conflict, traditional election campaigning is absent, replaced by subdued appeals for voting.
Manipur, known for high voter turnout, faces an uncertain election amidst ethnic unrest and calls for postponement to ensure fairness.
