Fix responsibility, restore peace in Manipur: North East Students’ Organisation

PTI, April 27, 2026, Shillong:  The North East Students’ Organisation (NESO) on Monday called for immediate steps to end the ongoing violence in Manipur.

In a statement, NESO, an umbrella organisation of student bodies from all North Eastern states, expressed “deep concern over the recurring cycle of violence and bloodshed” in Manipur, stating that innocent lives continue to be lost while the fabric of peaceful coexistence is being eroded.

“These repeated acts of violence against unarmed civilians represent a grave humanitarian concern that strikes at the core of human dignity, security and the fundamental right to live in peace,” NESO chairman SB Jyrwa said.

The organisation said the continuing unrest has caused “immeasurable suffering” to families and communities, leaving behind grief, fear and uncertainty. It extended condolences to bereaved families and expressed solidarity with all those affected by the prolonged conflict.

“The pain endured by the people is a collective pain shared by the entire North East,” Jyrwa said.

At the same time, NESO questioned the inability of both state and central authorities to effectively intervene and bring the crisis under control.

“The continued failure to restore peace and normalcy reflects a deeply concerning lapse in governance and responsibility,” he said.

The organisation called for “immediate, fair and transparent intervention” to prevent further escalation of violence and ensure justice. It stressed that those responsible for perpetrating such acts must be identified, held accountable, and booked in accordance with the law.

Appealing for restraint, NESO urged all communities and stakeholders to uphold humanitarian values and pursue dialogue.

“Violence can never be a solution; only dialogue and mutual respect aimed at addressing underlying issues can pave the way for lasting peace,” he added.

The organisation also recalled its past peace initiatives and reiterated its commitment to promoting harmony and stability in the region.

“The restoration of peace in Manipur is not only a regional necessity but a moral imperative. The time has come for all authorities concerned to act with urgency, sincerity and accountability,” Jyrwa said.