At least 54 people have been killed and 23,000 displaced in ethnic violence in Manipur, India. The violence erupted after a protest march by the Kuki tribal group resulted in clashes with the Meitei non-tribal group.
Violence has erupted in India’s northeastern state of Manipur, with at least 54 people killed and 23,000 displaced, mostly sheltering in army camps, according to military officials. The unrest began on Wednesday after a protest march organized by the Kuki tribal group sparked clashes with the Meitei non-tribal group. Authorities responded by issuing “shoot-at-sight” orders and calling in military reinforcement to quell the violence. The situation has raised concerns over the state’s history of ethnic violence, and the deployment of military helicopters and drones is aimed at significantly enhancing surveillance in violence-affected areas.
The clashes began after a protest march organized by the Kuki tribal group turned violent and resulted in widespread damage to vehicles and properties. The protest was against the state government’s move to establish autonomous councils for Meitei-dominated areas, a move that the Kukis view as an attempt to marginalize their community. The Meiteis, who constitute the majority of the state’s population, have been demanding greater autonomy, which the Kukis view as a threat to their own interests.
The situation quickly spiraled out of control, with clashes breaking out between the Kukis and Meiteis. The violence has led to at least 54 deaths and 23,000 people being displaced, with most of them taking shelter in army camps. The army has significantly enhanced surveillance in violence-affected areas, including the Imphal Valley, through the deployment of military helicopters and drones.
Authorities responded to the situation by issuing “shoot-at-sight” orders and calling in military reinforcement to quell the violence. The deployment of the army has led to a curfew being imposed in nine out of the 16 districts, with internet connections being cut off after violence broke out on Wednesday. The situation has raised concerns over the state’s history of ethnic violence, with the Kukis and Meiteis having a long-standing history of animosity towards each other.
On Sunday, the army announced that there was no new “major violence” overnight and that a curfew was lifted between 7am and 10am (02:00 and 05:00 GMT) in the Churachandpur district, one of the main flashpoint areas. However, the situation remains tense, and the deployment of the army is likely to continue until the situation is fully under control.
The unrest in Manipur state highlights the complex ethnic and political dynamics at play in the region. Manipur is a state with a diverse population, comprising of several ethnic groups, including the Kukis and Meiteis. The state has a history of ethnic violence, with the Kukis and Meiteis having clashed several times in the past. The latest violence is a reflection of the deep-seated tensions between these two communities and the state government’s failure to address their grievances.
The situation in Manipur state is a reminder of the challenges faced by India in maintaining social harmony in its diverse society. The government must take steps to address the underlying causes of the violence and ensure that such incidents do not occur in the future. It is important to create an inclusive society that respects the rights and interests of all its citizens, regardless of their ethnicity or religion. The deployment of the army is a short-term measure, and a long-term solution requires a sustained effort to address the deep-seated issues underlying the violence
