Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has cautioned that resolving the deep-seated differences among warring groups in Manipur will take time, underscoring the complexity of the ethnic conflict that has gripped the northeastern State for months. Speaking after his recent visit to Manipur, Mr. Bhagwat said that while efforts are underway to restore peace and harmony, there are no quick solutions to a crisis rooted in history, identity, and prolonged mistrust.

His remarks come at a time when Manipur continues to struggle with intermittent violence, displacement of thousands of people, and strained relations between communities, despite the deployment of central security forces and repeated appeals for calm by political and social leaders.

A Candid Assessment of a Prolonged Crisis

Mr. Bhagwat’s statement reflects a measured and realistic assessment of the situation in Manipur. He acknowledged that although there is a strong desire for peace among ordinary citizens, years of accumulated grievances and recent violent clashes have created deep emotional and psychological divides.

“Such differences do not disappear overnight. It will take time, patience, and sustained dialogue to heal wounds and rebuild trust,” Mr. Bhagwat said, according to people familiar with his interactions during the visit.

Unlike political soundbites that often promise swift resolutions, the RSS chief’s comments emphasised the long-term nature of reconciliation, suggesting that genuine peace requires more than administrative or security interventions.

Engagement With All Sections of Society

One of the key takeaways from Mr. Bhagwat’s visit was his emphasis on inclusive dialogue. He revealed that he held extensive discussions with:

• Tribal leaders from different communities

• Social and community leaders

• Youth representatives from across Manipur

These interactions, he said, were aimed at listening rather than prescribing solutions, understanding the fears, aspirations, and grievances of each group.

“Peace cannot be imposed. It must grow from mutual understanding and respect,” he reportedly told several interlocutors.

Observers note that engaging youth leaders is particularly significant, as young people have been both victims of the violence and, at times, participants in protests and unrest. Addressing their concerns is seen as crucial for preventing future cycles of conflict.

Background: The Roots of the Manipur Conflict

Manipur’s current turmoil has its roots in long-standing ethnic, social, and political tensions. While the immediate trigger for the violence was linked to policy and administrative issues, the underlying causes include:

• Historical grievances over land and resources

• Perceived inequalities in political representation

• Competing claims over identity and rights

• Economic marginalisation in certain regions

The conflict has largely been described as ethnic in nature, pitting communities with distinct cultural, linguistic, and historical identities against each other. Over time, mistrust has hardened, making reconciliation increasingly challenging.

Human Cost of the Violence

The prolonged unrest has had a devastating impact on ordinary citizens. Thousands have been displaced from their homes, forced to seek shelter in relief camps. Schools, businesses, and healthcare services have been disrupted, while fear and uncertainty continue to dominate daily life.

Mr. Bhagwat reportedly expressed concern over:

• The trauma faced by displaced families

• The disruption of education for children

• The psychological toll on youth

“When society breaks down, the most vulnerable suffer the most,” he is said to have remarked.

Civil society groups argue that healing the human cost of the conflict must go hand in hand with political and social reconciliation.

Role of Dialogue in Conflict Resolution

Central to Mr. Bhagwat’s message was the idea that dialogue is indispensable. He stressed that talking to all sides—even those with sharply opposing views—is essential for lasting peace.

Experts note that dialogue in Manipur faces several challenges:

• Deep mistrust between communities

• Fear of betrayal or loss of identity

• Political polarisation

• Influence of misinformation and rumours

Despite these hurdles, Mr. Bhagwat’s outreach to diverse groups has been viewed by some as a confidence-building step, particularly because it emphasises listening over lecturing.

Patience as a Strategic Necessity

By stating that resolving differences will take time, Mr. Bhagwat implicitly rejected the notion of quick-fix solutions. Analysts say this approach acknowledges that:

• Social wounds require time to heal

• Forced or rushed settlements can backfire

• Sustainable peace depends on grassroots acceptance

“Patience is not inaction; it is a strategy,” said a conflict resolution expert familiar with northeastern India.

This perspective aligns with historical experiences in conflict zones, where long-term engagement often proves more effective than short-term interventions.

RSS Perspective on Social Harmony

As head of the RSS, Mr. Bhagwat has often spoken about social unity and harmony as foundational principles. During his Manipur visit, he is understood to have reiterated the importance of:

• Respecting cultural diversity

• Avoiding narratives that dehumanise others

• Strengthening shared civic values

Supporters argue that such messaging can help counter polarisation, while critics question whether ideological organisations can play a neutral role in deeply contested conflicts.

Reactions to Bhagwat’s Remarks

Mr. Bhagwat’s comments have elicited mixed reactions.

Supportive Voices

Some civil society members and observers welcomed his realistic tone, noting that:

• Acknowledging complexity prevents false expectations

• Emphasis on dialogue aligns with peace-building principles

• Engagement with youth is a positive sign

Critical Perspectives

Others remain sceptical, arguing that:

• Statements alone cannot substitute concrete action

• The conflict requires institutional and political solutions

• Neutral mediation is essential

Despite differing views, there is broad agreement that any effort aimed at reducing violence and rebuilding trust is worth pursuing.

Government Efforts and Limitations

The State and Central governments have taken multiple steps, including:

• Deployment of security forces

• Formation of peace committees

• Appeals for calm

However, critics argue that security measures alone cannot resolve social and emotional divides. Mr. Bhagwat’s remarks appear to echo this sentiment, highlighting the need for societal engagement alongside administrative action.

Youth as Agents of Change

One of the most notable aspects of Mr. Bhagwat’s visit was his interaction with youth representatives. Young people in Manipur have grown up amid periodic unrest, shaping their worldview and sense of identity.

Experts believe that:

• Youth inclusion is critical for long-term peace

• Addressing unemployment and education is key

• Positive engagement can prevent radicalisation

Mr. Bhagwat reportedly encouraged young leaders to act as bridges between communities rather than carriers of inherited grievances.

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