Dear Editor,
The government needs to adopt a clear-cut policy towards the North-East and the militant groups operating there. It has usually kept its focus on the Kashmir issue.
Disputes in the North-East have been approached through the policy of delay mechanism, wherein it is assumed that militancy will peter out with time, as the next generation of insurgents may not be that radical in nature. The recent attack in Manipur has shown that this policy has been a failure and will only lead to more deaths of soldiers.
Another issue that is has to be addressed is India’s porous border with Myanmar. It surprising that the Indian Government had earlier signed a ceasefire agreement with an insurgent organisation that has its headquarters in another country. We may keep on analysing the issue and also check standard operating procedures but the fact remains that the offensive has been launched by militants repeatedly. Ceasefire agreements should not be signed with groups that suddenly break away in this manner.
Ashish Kumar
New Delhi