A CPI Rajya Sabha member who is part of a Left delegation touring violence-hit Manipur has cited the absence of mediators as a key obstacle to peace efforts, particularly because of a “scary” trust deficit between Meiteis and Kukis.

The observation by P. Sandosh Kumar, CPI Rajya Sabha member from Kerala, comes amid allegations about inadequate efforts by the BJP-led state and central governments at reconciliation and the restoration of normality.

“After travelling to several places, including Imphal and Churachandpur, I can say that we were able to move around without too many issues since there is an artificial peace prevailing here,” Kumar told The Telegraph from Imphal on Friday, the second day of the delegation’s three-day Manipur tour.

“But this uneasy calm is solely due to the fact that the Meitei and Kuki people have crossed over to areas where their respective communities are in the majority.”

Kumar said that establishing mutual trust was key to finding a lasting solution. “The trust deficit that we experienced from both sides (during visits to relief camps) is very scary. No one trusts anyone,” he said.

“While they have been pouring out their grief and laments to politicians who visit them, what is needed is someone or a group of people who they can trust in the larger effort to restore peace.”

Kumar cited a hypothetical example: “Let’s take the example of two groups clashing in Kerala. There will be someone or a set of people who can win them over through discussion. But that needs trust, which is lacking here after two months of violence, arson and killings.” He said an “extremely dangerous” trend was emerging among some local people who wanted UN intervention.

“This is an extremely dangerous and unwanted trend that we will never support. We are totally against any external intervention and are open only to an internal solution by the central government since the state government has totally failed in its duty,” he said.

The MP said a new leadership had become imperative.

“What we are saying is that this chief minister should not only resign immediately, but retire from politics as he won’t be able to lead any government even in the future. One large section (Kukis) doesn’t trust him any more,” he said.

Chief minister N. Biren Singh had made a dramatic move to resign a few days ago before letting his admirers stop him.

The delegation, made up of four Rajya Sabha members --- John Brittas, B. Bhattacharya (both CPM), Kumar and Binoy Viswam (both CPI) -- and CPI Lok Sabha member K. Subbarayan had visited Meitei relief camps in and around Imphal on Thursday.

On Friday, the members took a copter from Imphal to Churachandpur and visited several relief camps sheltering displaced Kukis. “Meiteis and Kukis accuse each other of gory crimes. They say even the physically and mentally challenged have not been spared. Officially, 355 churches have been subject to arson,” Kumar said.

On Friday, the delegation met governor Anusuiya Uikey and members of civil societies.