Peoples’ mandate: what next?
- Imphal Times Editorial :: December 31 2017 -

Finally, the dust have settled after an all-out battle for political supremacy in the country and the largest democracy in the world is slowly getting back to the normal hustle and bustle, but this time, there is a palpable sense of hope and positivity in the air, a fact driven home by the overwhelming response of the voters and the ensuing result.

The yearning for change that has been quietly but consistently simmering amongst the public has been fulfilled, and yet, this is not the final victory, for the real test is yet to commence.

In all fairness, the outgoing Government initiated quite a lot of development schemes, even though these were portrayed as populist moves rather than schemes based on necessity, what with the names of the schemes glorifying a dynasty rather than indicating the purpose for the same.

Also, one needs to get away from the euphoria and take a hard, cold look at the reality as well as the possible course of action the new Government might take and also the condition of the State Government in relation to the political scenario unfolding at the centre.

Policies and programs are framed by the leaders who are chosen by the people through election who are made to make an informed judgment after making available all possible information about the candidates and their parties and the ideologies they represent.

What is disconcerting at the state level is the thought of having to choose the lesser of the evils, as the leaders of almost all the political parties have been tried and tested by the public before, and were found wanting in various aspects of their performance as leaders.

These political turncoats are now in a rejuvenating mood mainly due to the change of guard at the centre, while the people of the state have all but given up hope of any positive change and progress as the tables have turned and the ruling government in the state have become the opposition of the party ruling the centre, and despite the unconvincing assurances by the state Government of furthering the various development projects being worked on at present, the public cannot help but feel the impending restrictions and revaluations of the works and schemes being implemented by the state Government which will eventually affect the already delayed development which is inching along even at present.

But more than the concerns regarding development, the one thing people in Manipur will be looking out for is the repeal of AFSPA as promised by the present Prime Minister at his campaign speech during his Manipur visit. The state unit of the ruling party should not sit back and bask in reflected glory, but should instead be proactive in working towards realizing the long cherished wish of the people of Manipur.

The state Government, meanwhile, should make an earnest effort to streamline the operational aspects of the state security forces and also to raise their efficiency and most importantly to improve their people-skill, a concept which is evidently yet to be recognized as a vital component of people working in the public domain, and especially essential for those who regulates law and order.

The present political scenario presents a peculiar situation for the people of the state, and is a very good time, if there ever will be one, to ascertain the capabilities and limitations of the ruling opposition party and the opposition whose party is ruling at the centre.