Imphal, Apr 6 : Amidst the ongoing unrest in Manipur, the traditional elements of election campaigning are conspicuously absent as the state gears up for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in less than two weeks. Typically vibrant with posters, rallies, and visible movements of leaders, Manipur now witnesses a muted election fervor. The only visible signs of the impending elections are the hoardings put up by local election authorities, urging citizens to exercise their franchise.
Major party figures have refrained from visiting the conflict-ridden state to canvass for votes or make electoral pledges. Despite the BJP enlisting prominent leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and the Congress including Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi in their lineup of star campaigners, none of them have visited Manipur yet.
While the Election Commission of Manipur maintains that there are no official restrictions on campaigning activities, party representatives emphasize the need for subdued campaigning to avoid exacerbating the delicate situation in the state. Candidates have come up with a unique solution, reaching out to voters through non-conventional means such as holding meetings at their residences or party offices and conducting door-to-door campaigns.
The subdued campaign approach reflects an understanding of the gravity of the situation in Manipur, where any loud campaigning could potentially disrupt the fragile law and order. With the ethnic strife in the state resulting in numerous casualties and a significant displaced population, there is a prevailing sense of urgency for stability and peace.
Scheduled in two phases on April 19 and 26, the Lok Sabha elections in Manipur have garnered attention for the displaced population’s voting arrangements. Special polling stations will be set up at relief camps to enable displaced people to cast their votes. Despite these efforts, candidates are yet to visit these facilities, where residents await resolution and peace amidst the prevailing unrest.
The subdued election climate in Manipur reflects the region’s earnest pursuit of stability and peace amidst turbulent times.
