Manipur, a state that joined the Indian Union after signing the Merger Agreement, stands at the crossroads of a humanitarian and political crisis. Being a state in the northeastern region and sharing borders with Myanmar, Manipur has long grappled with challenges such as illegal immigration and drug trafficking.
Myanmar’s ongoing turmoil under military junta rule has exacerbated the situation, with a significant influx of illegal immigrants crossing into Manipur. Reports suggest that many engage in illegal activities, further straining the state’s already fragile socio-political fabric. Despite the presence of Assam Rifles guarding the border, these challenges persist.
Having witnessed the unfolding crisis for the past 18 months as a young journalist and concerned citizen, I have seen the profound emotional and psychological toll it has taken on the people. The crisis, which erupted on May 3, 2023, has left deep scars. The conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities, who once coexisted peacefully, has devolved into hatred and division. These indigenous groups,
recognized as tribes under the constitution, have fallen prey to manipulation by vested interests, spreading false narratives to justify violence and destruction.
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Demanding constitutional rights is not inherently wrong, but resorting to violence, killing innocent civilians, and promoting divisive agendas are unacceptable by any legal or moral standards. During this crisis, I had the opportunity to visit Kuki villages and interact with residents, many of whom expressed a desire for reconciliation and an end to violence. They shared their stories of loss, including the destruction of businesses and livelihoods. Even the Chief Minister of Manipur has repeatedly highlighted that the current turmoil stems from external elements exploiting indigenous communities for selfish motives.
The situation has spiraled into chaos. Over 250 lives have been lost, 60,000 people displaced, and countless injured. Properties have been burned, leaving communities devastated. Disturbingly, there is evidence of advanced weaponry being used, including drone bombs and missiles. One such attack in Moirang claimed a life earlier this year. Investigations by the authority reveal a troubling influx of arms and
ammunition into the state, reportedly supplied from both within and beyond India to Kuki militants, some of whom are under a Suspension of Operations agreement with the government.
The atrocities continue unabated. Recent violence erupted in Imphal on November 16, 2024, following the discovery of six dead bodies, including an infant, abducted from Jiribam District’s Jakuradhor Relief Camp. These individuals were taken by armed militants on November 11 after an attack on a security post. Although the CRPF retaliated, killing ten militants, the abductors were later claimed by some organizations to be “village volunteers,” despite possessing automatic weapons and explosives. Such acts of terror underscore the grave reality of the situation.
Despite the gravity of the crisis, the Indian government’s response has been lackluster. Security forces have been deployed in large numbers, but this has failed to ensure the safety of lives and properties. Villages remain vulnerable to sudden attacks by Kuki militants, fostering a pervasive sense of fear. Although the Union Home Ministry recently facilitated a meeting in New Delhi with representatives from
the Kuki, Meitei, and Naga communities, the discussions yielded no concrete outcomes.
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Previous parliamentary sessions have also failed to address the crisis meaningfully. Opposition parties raised the issue, but the ruling party offered only superficial responses, leaving the people of Manipur disheartened. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has yet to visit the state or engage directly with stakeholders, further deepening the public’s sense of neglect. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has held several security meetings, but they have not succeeded in restoring public confidence or normalcy.
As the winter session of Parliament approaches, the people of Manipur demand more than rhetoric. They want a serious, inclusive discussion involving all leaders to chart a path toward peace and stability. Sending additional security forces alone cannot resolve the deep-seated issues. Addressing the root causes of the conflict and safeguarding the state’s integrity require a comprehensive approach.
Will this winter session be different? Will the Indian government rise to the occasion and take decisive steps to restore peace in Manipur? The people are tired of broken promises and superficial measures. They want action, not words. They deserve to live without fear and to see their beautiful state flourish once again. The time to act is now.
The author is a regional journalist. Views are personal.
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