In the wake of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the plight of thousands of displaced individuals from Manipur residing in Mizoram has come to light, raising concerns about their ability to exercise their democratic right to vote. Following the ethnic clashes that rocked Manipur last year, significant numbers of people, primarily belonging to the Kuki-Zo community, sought refuge in Mizoram, escaping the turmoil in their home state.
Recent reports indicate that despite assurances from the Election Commission of India regarding arrangements for displaced voters, no provisions have been made for the Internally Displaced People (IDPs) from Manipur residing in Mizoram. This oversight could potentially disenfranchise a considerable portion of the affected population, depriving them of their fundamental right to participate in the electoral process.
Data from the Mizoram Home Department, accessed by PTI, reveals the extent of the displacement, with a total of 9,196 adults and children from Manipur currently seeking shelter in Mizoram. Among them, 1,340 individuals are residing in relief camps, while 7,856 are staying outside such facilities, dispersed across various locations in Mizoram.
The situation is particularly concerning given the precedent set by the Election Commission in allowing IDPs to cast their votes from host states in previous instances. For example, Kashmiri IDPs living in Delhi were permitted to participate in elections from the capital city. However, the lack of similar arrangements for the displaced Manipuris in Mizoram has sparked criticism and calls for urgent action to address the issue.
It is worth noting that the displaced individuals from Manipur primarily belong to the minority Kuki-Zo community, which shares ethnic ties with the Mizos, the dominant ethnic group in Mizoram. Their integration into Mizoram's social fabric further underscores the need for inclusive electoral practices that ensure their participation in the democratic process.
As the Lok Sabha elections for northeast states draw near, ensuring their right to vote not only upholds the principles of democracy but also serves as a crucial step towards their integration and empowerment in their temporary places of refuge.
With just weeks remaining until polling day, the urgency of addressing this issue cannot be overstated, as every citizen's right to participate in the democratic process must be safeguarded and upheld.