Embedded disorder
- Hueiyen Lanpao Editorial :: May 14 2015 -

The recent attack on a sub-inspector of Manipur Police by the armed escort/guards of the State Legislative Assembly Speaker in the heart of Imphal City is not only abominable, brutal and condemnable but also indicates the often ignored symptom ingrained in the body politics of the land as an impact of prolonged militarisation.

Analysts and observers have already noted that in a society characterized by prolonged militarization, people not only internalise fear but the fear itself is the root of any aggression.

This symptom has the tendency to uproot the State’s rationale behind the use of force for effective governance.

It also gradually immobilizes the roles assigned to an institution which had been given the task of policing the citizens.

In the recent incident, the questions one needs to raise is not only about the how criminalized our police system is but on how certain institutions are brought to shame by the wayward behaviour of the security forces of all hues.

The unbridled power to exercise force or the self-bestowed power to beat up people causing grievous injuries is something not sanctioned by a democratic order under any circumstances.

This is why there is something called the rule of law.

When those appointed with the responsibility of safeguarding the rights of the citizens from being violated by criminals committing violent acts, indulge in atrocious behaviour, it is obvious that there will be reactions of the public.

How the State Government, particularly the Home Department deals with such issues would also indicate, the willingness of the authority to conform to established law.

The Home Department’s action of suspending the escort commander of the convoy of Speaker in connection with the brutal assault of the sub-inspector is a good move.

However, one is not sure whether or not when those involved in the incident will be arrested on criminal charges.

Besides the procedural steps being taken up, this incident should remind one and all that there are certain acts of the State related to maintaining order which the citizens should guard against.

It is now time for a reality check on how certain state apparatus have been responsible for dishonouring law by virtue of embedded disorder.