The Bharatiya Janata Party is much taken in with the rhetorical sweep of double engine sarkar. The slogan pledges seamless, quality, party governance unimpeded by political differences between state and Centre. But Manipur, which has been up in flames since May, has shown that the twin engines of the BJP sarkar can come a cropper at the same time. N. Biren Singh’s state administration is a discredited institution in the troubled state. Mr Singh’s government has failed to restore order or, indeed, prevent the death and destruction that continue sporadically. Over a hundred lives have been lost and thousands displaced. Worse, his government is seen as partisan in its approach. Has the other — bigger — engine, New Delhi, been even-handed? Apparently not. At a meeting between the Union home minister, Amit Shah, and Mr Singh, an apparent division of responsibility was worked out by which the state government would look after peace in the valley while Mr Shah’s ministry would take up a larger share of the responsibility for managing the hills. The BJP’s love for division is well-known. But such a policy, as has been pointed out by Manipur’s civil society, would deepen the seeds of division, estranging the warring Meiteis and Kukis further. The plan, ironically, exposes the complete lack of trust that the Kukis — they dominate the hill tracts — have in Mr Singh’s capabilities. Could this be because of his administration’s prejudices? And why should the valley not merit Mr Shah’s attention? Vigilantism must be curbed both in the valley and the hills.

Of course, one cannot expect the BJP to come up with answers: the party is not quite fond of accountability or even consultative processes. The latter was evident at the recently held all-party meeting where a former chief minister, an experienced administrator, was allegedly not heard out fully. A meeting of all parties, even though it was called a bit late in the day, is a good measure. But it must be truly consultative in nature with Delhi and Imphal willing to listen to all stakeholders. Above all, a patient, empathetic hearing of the people of Manipur is a must. Otherwise, confidence-building measures will remain cosmetic in nature.