In an interview where he is sharply critical of the Union government’s handling of the crisis in Manipur and, in particular, that of the prime minister and home minister, the editor-in-chief of an Imphal-based newspaper says not only has Prime Minister Narendra Modi turned his back on Manipur but “we don’t even see Modi’s back”.

Dhiren A. Sadokpam repeatedly blamed the Union government for the crisis in Manipur whilst circumventing questions or even refusing to answer questions about chief minister N. Biren Singh’s own handling of the crisis. Whilst admitting in the interview that the chief minister “hasn’t handled things properly”, he refused to answer questions about whether Singh should be replaced. Instead, Sadokpam strongly argued that the Union government should have removed him whilst refusing to say what his own view is. However, at one point, Sadokpam did say “Biren doesn’t have a clue” and also questioned home minister Amit Shah’s claim he’s been “cooperative”.

Sadokpam made a particular point of comparing Modi’s silence on Manipur with former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru’s comments about Assam during the 1962 India-China War. He said that at least Nehru had expressed concern and extended his sympathies. Modi’s silence, he added, is worse.

In the interview, Sadokpam, who is the editor-in-chief of The Frontier Manipur, expressed great concern and apprehension about recent statements issued by the United Naga Council which suggest that the Nagas are tilting towards the Meitei community, and he believes that this has the potential to make the present crisis “considerably worse”.

Sadokpam spoke at length about the history of Kuki-Naga relations, which have often been adverse, including in the early ’90s when there were serious clashes between them. He pointed out that historically the Nagas consider only themselves and the Meitei as indigenous to Manipur and not the Kuki. He also said this is another reason for the Union government to invigorate and re-order its handling of the crisis in Manipur.

Sadokpam also spoke about the Meitei Pangal community who, like other small tribes in Manipur, do not wish to be involved in the Kuki-Meitei struggle, but have become unfortunate accidental victims of the crisis. He accepts that they are feeling insecure and extremely apprehensive.

The Wire is now on WhatsApp. Follow our channel for sharp analysis and opinions on the latest developments.