Manipur – the tiny state of the country - is battered by prolonged ethnic unrest from May 3, 2023 and in these years, four Chief Secretaries have been appointed. This has sparked anticipation and scepticism among the bureaucrats. They are asking a fundamental question – Is this a decisive administrative move and a meaningful course correction, or merely a cosmetic change? The suspension of the Assembly has deepened the governance vacuum and in this context, the Chief Secretary becomes more than just an administrative head and represents the state with utmost neutrality and legitimacy. In Manipur, it is necessary to gain trust of Meitei and Kuki communities. In a state as deeply fractured as Manipur, administrative measures alone are not sufficient. The bureaucrats of Manipur cadre opined that without the involvement of respected local leadership and inclusive engagement, even the most skilled civil servant will be operating in a vacuum. (For full story, visit November issue of Whispers In The Corridors).