Ethnic Tensions and Political Unrest in Manipur: A Deepening and Escalating Crisis
Manipur, a northeastern state in India, has been engulfed in violence and unrest since May 2023, when ethnic tensions between the majority Meitei community and the tribal Kuki and Naga groups erupted into widespread conflict. The roots of this conflict stretch back decades, stemming from deep-seated ethnic, political, and economic issues. The recent violence, sparked by the demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status by the Meitei community, has exacerbated the already volatile relations between these groups, leading to a humanitarian and political crisis that has continued to spiral out of control.
With recent turn-in events, a curfew has been enforced in three districts of Manipur as the ongoing conflict intensifies. Violence has surged again, prompting the government to impose restrictions in Imphal East, Imphal West, and Thoubal districts. Recently, a new wave of unrest has swept through the state.
On September 6, an RPG attack in Moirang claimed the life of a person at the residence of Manipur’s first Chief Minister, Mairembam Koireng Singh.
On Monday, the District Magistrates of Imphal East and Imphal West issued two separate orders announcing the immediate imposition of a total curfew in both districts. This measure, effective until further notice, replaces the previous curfew relaxation that allowed movement from 5 am to 10 pm, due to the “developing law and order situation” in the area, according to ANI.
However, the statement added that essential services such as media, electricity, courts, and healthcare are exempt from the curfew.
As ethnic violence claimed 11 lives in various incidents across the state, students have staged large-scale protests in the valley regions, particularly in Thoubal and Imphal, according to the Indian Express.
In Thoubal, a clash between protesters and police left at least 20 people, including police officers, injured. The police responded with tear gas and stun grenades, while the protesters retaliated by throwing stones.
On Monday, students from several schools and colleges set up camps at Imphal’s Khwairamband Women Market, with local women shopkeepers’ support, as PTI reported.
Thousands of students gathered in front of the Manipur Secretariat and Raj Bhavan, demanding action against those responsible for recent drone and missile attacks and calling for the protection of the state’s “territorial and administrative integrity.”
Causes and impact: What led to the unrest
The violence and unrest in Manipur, the northeastern state, erupted on May 3, 2023, when the All Tribal Students’ Union of Manipur (ATSUM) organized a protest against the demand for ST status by the Meitei community. The protest turned violent, leading to clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities, and soon spread across several districts.
The violence quickly escalated, with mobs attacking homes, religious sites, and properties. The state government imposed curfews, suspended mobile internet services, and called in the Indian Army and paramilitary forces to restore order. Over 150 people were killed and thousands were displaced.
Also Read: Apple Introduces iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus with Big Upgrades
The primary stems from long-standing ethnic tensions between the majority Meitei community, which resides mainly in the Imphal Valley, and various tribal groups, particularly the Kuki and Naga communities, predominantly living in the hilly regions. These groups have different cultural, religious, and historical backgrounds, leading to decades of friction over land, resources, and political representation.
More than a year has gone by since the violence escalated, with measures from the authorities failing to manage the situation.
The situation in Manipur is complex and requires a multifaceted approach to achieve peace and reconciliation. To address the situation, there is a need for local dialogue and a joint effort to resolve the escalation of violence, which goes far beyond ethnic violence.
Dialogue between the Meitei and tribal communities is essential for long-term peace. Rehabilitation of displaced people and the clear strict enforcement of law and order in the region, with the Supreme Court clearly stating that it cannot issue directions to the state government and law enforcement agencies to maintain law and order in Manipur; it is the state’s responsibility to handle the situation.
A complex mix of ethnic tensions, political issues, and economic factors. The violence has created a humanitarian crisis with further fresh violence erupting in the valley, and the path to peace will require significant efforts from all sides.
Manipur’s ongoing violence highlights the broader challenges in northeastern India, where diverse ethnic communities often face issues of representation, resource allocation, and cultural preservation. As the crisis continues, there is an urgent need for dialogue between the Meitei and tribal communities, stronger enforcement of law and order, and rehabilitation efforts for those displaced by the conflict. Without these measures, Manipur risks falling deeper into chaos, and the path to peace remains uncertain.
Share this:
Follow Us on:
