Patriotism, ideally a force for unity and progress, is often manipulated to justify destructive acts that harm the very nation they claim to serve. In Manipur, this phenomenon has manifested in a devastating ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, fueled by narratives of cultural and territorial nationalism. Miscreants, often cloaked in the rhetoric of protecting their community’s interests, have wreaked havoc through violence, arson, and destruction of public and private property. Despite the clear losses inflicted on all sides, these acts persist, driven by hidden agendas that exploit patriotic sentiments for political, economic, or personal gain.
Since May 3, 2023, Manipur has been embroiled in ethnic violence. The conflict, has claimed over 260 lives and displaced more than 60,000 people as of November 2024. Over 4,700 houses have been torched, 386 religious structures (254 churches and 132 temples) vandalized, and more than 6,000 weapons looted from police armories, with only about 2,500 recovered. These acts, often justified as protecting ethnic or cultural integrity, have instead fractured Manipur into two ethnic enclaves: the Meitei-dominated valley and the Kuki-dominated hills, separated by a no-man’s-land patrolled by federal forces. Private property losses, including homes and businesses, have devastated livelihoods, with many displaced residents now living in cramped relief camps.
The violence in Manipur, cloaked in the rhetoric of ethnic and patriotic pride, has caused irreparable harm to the state’s social and economic fabric. Far from protecting Manipur’s interests, the destruction of homes, religious sites, and public assets serves only those with political, economic, or personal agendas.
A Misguided Pursuit
Patriotism, at its core, is a deep love for one’s land/community/nation/country, a sentiment that should inspire unity, progress, and collective well-being. However, this noble ideal is sometimes hijacked by miscreants or political actors for their own ends, regardless of the social damage this creates. The destruction of public and private property, far from advancing any patriotic cause, only inflicts losses on the very community these individuals claim to serve. Despite the clear losses inflicted on all sides, these acts persist, driven by hidden agendas that exploit patriotic sentiments for political, economic, or personal gain. This article explores the phenomenon of violence disguised as patriotism, its consequences, and the hidden agendas driving such acts.
The Facade of Patriotism
Across the globe, from street protests to organized riots, groups have increasingly used patriotism as a justification for violent behavior. Whether it is vandalizing public infrastructure, torching private property, or clashing with authorities, these acts are often framed as a defense of national pride, cultural identity, or sovereignty. In reality, such actions rarely align with the true spirit of patriotism, which seeks to build rather than destroy. For instance, protests that escalate into riots – such as those seen in various countries during political upheavals – often result in the destruction of public assets like buses, government buildings, or roads. Private businesses, homes, and vehicles also bear the brunt of this chaos. The irony is stark, those claiming to protect the land’s honor are actively undermining its resources, causing economic and social harm that affects citizens across the spectrum.
The Cost of Destruction
The destruction of property, whether public or private, is a loss for all. Public infrastructure – roads, bridges, schools, and hospitals is built and maintained through taxpayer money, representing the collective effort of a nation’s citizens. When these are damaged, the financial burden of repair falls back on the public, diverting funds from essential services like healthcare or education etc. Similarly, private property destruction devastates livelihoods, as small businesses, homes, and personal belongings are often irreplaceable for those affected.
The economic toll is staggering. For example, riots in major cities worldwide have caused billions in damages, with recovery efforts stretching over years. Beyond the financial cost, the social fabric is torn apart. Communities are left polarized, trust in institutions erodes, and fear replaces unity. Far from advancing a patriotic cause, these acts weaken the democratic foundation.
Hidden Agendas Behind the Chaos
While the perpetrators of such violence often wave the flag of patriotism, their actions frequently serve hidden agendas. These may include:
- Political Gain: Some groups exploit patriotic fervor to destabilize governments or push partisan agendas. By inciting violence, they aim to discredit opponents, polarize society, or create a power vacuum they can exploit.
- Personal Enrichment: Looting and vandalism often accompany such unrest, suggesting that some miscreants are driven by opportunism rather than ideology. Under the guise of patriotism, they plunder resources or extort businesses for personal gain.
- Social Control: In some cases, violence is orchestrated to suppress dissent or intimidate marginalized groups. By framing their actions as patriotic, perpetrators seek to justify discrimination or exclusionary policies, sowing division rather than unity.
- External Manipulation: Foreign entities or vested interests may fund or provoke such violence to weaken a nation’s stability. By amplifying divisive rhetoric, they exploit patriotic sentiments to create internal conflict.
The Role of Misinformation
The spread of misinformation, particularly through social media, has fueled this trend. False narratives, doctored images, and inflammatory rhetoric can whip up patriotic zeal, convincing individuals that violence is a legitimate expression of loyalty. Miscreants exploit these platforms to spread propaganda, recruit followers, and justify their actions as a defense of cultural identity.
A Call for True Patriotism
To counter this misuse of patriotism, society must redefine what it means to love one’s community. True patriotism lies in constructive actions – building communities, fostering dialogue, and protecting resources for future generations. Governments, civil society, and individuals all have a role to play:
- Education and Awareness: Promoting critical thinking and media literacy can help citizens discern genuine patriotism from manipulative rhetoric.
- Strong Governance: Authorities must enforce laws impartially, ensuring that those who destroy property in the name of patriotism face consequences, regardless of their stated motives.
- Community Engagement: Grassroots movements can channel patriotic energy into positive initiatives, such as volunteering, environmental conservation, or supporting local economies.
- Dialogue Over Division: Open, inclusive conversations about native identity can reduce the appeal of extremist narratives that fuel violence.
Conclusion
Violence in the name of patriotism is a betrayal of the very values it claims to uphold. The destruction of public and private property serves no one but those with selfish or divisive agendas, leaving society to bear the costs. True patriotism is not about tearing down but building up – creating a land that thrives through unity, respect, and shared progress. By rejecting the false narrative of violent patriotism and embracing constructive action, we can reclaim the true meaning of love for one’s community/Land/Country.
The author is Founder & Chairperson of ETA, Northeast Women’s Network
