Nestled amidst fertile valleys and captivating hills on India’s northeastern border with Myanmar, Manipur stands as a land of picturesque beauty. However, behind its scenic façade, the state is currently embroiled in the clutches of a devastating ethnic conflict. Over the past two months, tensions have intensified, transforming it into one of India’s longest-standing disputes. Although the intensity of violence has somewhat subsided in recent times, the absence of political determination to address the underlying causes of the conflict leaves the door open for future outbreaks.
It was on May 3, 2023, that an eruption of ethnic clashes reverberated throughout Manipur, pitting the Meitei against various tribal groups, including the Kuki and Zo peoples who hail from the surrounding hills. As the events unfolded, the death toll has tragically surpassed a hundred, leaving thousands displaced in its wake. This conflict has prompted the deployment of troops and hindered the progress of investigations. At its core, the dispute finds its origins in the Meitei community’s demand for “scheduled tribe” status, which has sparked protests from tribal communities.
The clash centers around the Meitei community, predominantly Hindu and residing in the valley, particularly in the capital city of Imphal, and the hill tribes, primarily the Christian Kukis. The Meitei community has long accused the Kukis of receiving preferential treatment due to their tribal status. Presently, they demand inclusion in the state’s roster of scheduled tribes – a designation that would grant them access to government jobs allocated through tribal quotas and the right to settle in tribal areas. However, the Kukis staunchly oppose these demands, fearing that it would further solidify Meitei economic dominance and jeopardize their already fragile livelihoods.
These tensions stem from two critical factors: the issue of illegal settlements in reserve forest areas and the demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. For decades, the state has grappled with the problem of illegal immigrants occupying reserve forests, with claims that immigrants from Myanmar have unlawfully settled there since the 1970s. While the government aims to address this issue, tribal groups argue that it serves as a pretext for the dominant Meitei population to drive them away from their ancestral lands.
In a move perceived as anti-tribal, the BJP-led state government launched an eviction drive in Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, and Tengnoupal districts in February 2023, labeling forest dwellers as “encroachers.” This action has further escalated tensions and raised concerns among tribal communities regarding their rights and land ownership. Simultaneously, the Manipur Cabinet’s decision to withdraw from Suspension of Operation agreements with three Kuki militant groups, along with demands for a National Register of Citizens (NRC) based on the 1951 census, has added to the complexities of the situation. These recent developments, coupled with clashes and protests, have created a volatile environment in Manipur, as the government grapples with striking a delicate balance between addressing illegal settlements and considering the implications of ST status on ethnic dynamics and regional stability.
In the face of settlement restrictions imposed on the Meiteis and concerns over unequal resource distribution, the state finds itself at a critical crossroads. The imperative for inclusive governance becomes ever more pressing. Bridging the divide and fostering unity among the communities are paramount for the peaceful coexistence and progress of Manipur. Addressing grievances and promoting equitable development stand as vital steps toward ensuring a harmonious future for all residents of the state.
While this recent outbreak of violence in Manipur has unleashed a wave of turmoil, it is crucial to acknowledge that this unfortunate episode is not an isolated event within India’s Northeast region. The exploitation of diverse ethnic communities for the benefit of a select few has tragically become a recurring pattern. As efforts are made toward long-term peacebuilding, it is imperative to confront the longstanding issue of weaponizing colonial fault lines. Even after decades of independence, the lack of initiatives aimed at fostering understanding and healing historical wounds requires engaging in citizen-centric dialogues, collaborating with civil society, and embracing Indigenous peacemaking initiatives. These endeavors seek to mend the shattered hearts and minds of communities plagued by violence while paving the way for responsive governance, transparency, and a shared vision of lasting peace in the region. To chart a path toward a brighter future, it is imperative to address these deep-rooted divisions and foster a genuine appreciation for the diverse histories, cultures, and traditions that coexist within the region.
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