It is unfortunate that violence in the Northeastern state continues unabated
A backlash by villagers against an armed group that had been repeatedly attacking their hamlets in Manipur's Kangpokpi district over the past few days culminated in the state's worst bloodshed in a single clash since the ethnic conflict erupted on May 3. In the bloodiest incident nine people lost their lives while 10 were wounded. Manipur is a culturally diverse state, home to several ethnic communities, including the Meiteis, Nagas, and Kukis. Historical and social divisions among these groups have led to sporadic violence and conflicts over resources, territorial claims, and political representation. Manipur has witnessed the emergence of various insurgent groups, each with its own ideological agenda. These groups often resort to violence leading to a vicious cycle of retaliation and counter-violence. Besides, unemployment, lack of economic opportunities, and inadequate infrastructure have contributed to the sense of frustration and disillusionment among the youth of Manipur. These socio-economic factors create an environment where violence becomes an outlet for expressing grievances and seeking attention. Add to this the political superstructure which widens the schism for electoral gains. Frequent changes in political leadership and the absence of stable governance have impeded effective policymaking. Political instability creates a fertile ground for violence to persist and thrive. What is disturbing is that many insurgent groups are acting from Myanmar which compounds the problem.
Imphal Valley occupying about 10% of the land area of the state is mainly populated by the Meitei people. The surrounding hills are inhabited by Kukis in the southern portion and Nagas in the northeastern portion. The Meiteis make up 53% of the population. The tribal population, consisting of predominantly Christian Kukis and the Nagas, forms about 40% of the state's 3.5 million people. They reside in the reserved hill regions consisting of the rest of the 90% of the state. However, the Meiteis dominate political power in the Assembly and get the lion's share of Government benefits. Tribal groups complain that the government spending is concentrated in the Imphal Valley. The trouble this year started when the state government in Manipur began efforts to remove illegal immigrants from settlements in reserve forest areas. Officials have stated that illegal immigrants from Myanmar have been settling in Manipur since the 1970s. Tribal groups have said that illegal immigration is a pretext under which the Meitei population wants to drive the tribal population from their lands. In February 2023, the BJP state government began an eviction drive in districts of Churachandpur, Kangpokpi and Tengnoupal, declaring the forest dwellers as encroachers. It is common knowledge that the Kuki's have been at the receiving end. The Government must act proactively to bring all stakeholders to dialogue and sternly deal with the miscreants. It should also stop all operations which enrage any community and widen the schism in the society.