Resurgence of Ethnic Violence in Manipur: A Year of Unrest

Resurgence of Ethnic Violence in Manipur

More than a year after the northeastern Indian state of Manipur transformed into a battleground, the region is witnessing a troubling resurgence of deadly ethnic violence this month. In response to the escalating unrest, local authorities have reinstated a curfew and imposed an internet blackout as Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government grapples with the challenge of restoring peace.

The conflict, which erupted in May 2023, was sparked by a contentious dispute between two prominent ethnic groups: the Meitei and the Kuki. This unrest was ignited by the Meitei community’s demand for special status that would ensure their access to government jobs and the right to purchase land. The situation has resulted in tragic consequences, with reports indicating that over 200 individuals have lost their lives and at least 60,000 others have been displaced due to the violence.

As the violence escalated, villages were set ablaze, and harrowing accounts of widespread sexual assaults emerged. In response to the chaos, the Indian Army intervened, effectively partitioning the state to separate the two conflicting groups.

During India’s general elections this past spring, opposition politicians were vocal in their criticism of Mr. Modi, highlighting his silence on the Manipur crisis and accusing him of failing to take adequate measures to address the ongoing violence. Despite the turmoil, Mr. Modi has continued to support the state’s chief minister, N. Biren Singh, a member of his Bharatiya Janata Party. Critics argue that Mr. Singh, who represents the majority Meitei community, has only intensified the conflict with his biased statements and controversial handling of the situation.

While the intensity of violence had diminished over the preceding months, it has surged once more in recent weeks, resulting in the deaths of 11 individuals—eight from the Kuki community and three from the Meitei community—according to data compiled by various Kuki and Meitei organizations. The Manipur police have reported a “significant escalation” in the now 16-month-long conflict, accusing Kuki militants of employing drones and long-range rockets against both civilians and security forces.

Amid the turmoil, security forces have clashed with demonstrators in the state capital, Imphal, highlighting the ongoing volatility of the situation. The continuing violence underscores the urgent need for effective conflict resolution and peacebuilding efforts in Manipur.