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New Manipur
Manipur will go to the polls in two phases on February 14 and 21 this year, which means that only a month and a half or so is left for discussion, debate and deliberation on issues confronting the State and its people who are living in miserable conditions thanks to political instability caused by power hungry elected representatives.
Since there was an air of uncertainity before the announcement of the poll dates by the Election Commission, most of the political parties could not put themselves on top gear. Hence all the parties including those hoping to head the next Government could not come out with poll promises or election manifesto although the countdown has already begun.
When they release their manifestos only a few days will be left for discussions on the issues. Election has provided an opportunity to the State to review the performances of those leaders elected in the last Assembly elections. The main idea of such an exercise is to vote out those who have failed miserably.
As far as poll promises made during elections in Manipur are concerned, promises were made only to be broken. Experience tells us that politicians promised the earth before elections, but things are different once they are in power. No one would be surprised if the parties, which will be contesting the elections, repeat the same promises made before the last Assembly elections.
It can be safely assumed that majority of the parties would promise in this round of elections to provide a clean administration and a sound economy, to protect the territorial integrity of Manipur, to restore communal harmony among different communities, to improve the law and order situation, to bring a political settlement to the issue of insurgency, to provide jobs for the educated jobless youths etc., etc.
All these are repeat of the past. It may not be an exaggeration to suggest that personal interest was put above all these issues once they got into power.
What the State needs today is not tall and vague promises like raising the living and economic conditions of the people. If they can make promises as simple as "I will never take bribes; I will not launder public money; I will ensure that my department serves the people without having the need of greasing the palms of our babus and I will not indulge in party hopping for Ministerial berths; etc." and also have the enough courage to keep them, they can do wonders and Manipur will become a far better place to live.
People also have a responsibility in setting things right. For instance they should not encourage the candidates to use unfair means like using money power during this elections. They should have the courage to say no when they are asked to sell their democratic rights. As long as the voters are corrupt the state will never be able to choose honest, capable, competent and true leaders. We cannot expect our leader to become Mr. Clean as long as we, the voters are dirty and corrupt.
(Courtesy: The Sangai Express)
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