In the aftermath of a devastating ethnic conflict that claimed over 220 lives and displaced around 59,000 individuals, many residents of Manipur are still living in government relief camps. More than a year later, the region’s three million residents are yearning for stability.
The violence erupted in May of the previous year, primarily between the majority Meitei community and the Kuki indigenous minority. The tensions began with Kuki protests demanding official tribal status, which the Meitei community opposed, fearing it would affect their access to government benefits.
Currently, Manipur is effectively divided between the Meitei-dominated Imphal Valley and Kuki-inhabited hill areas, with security forces guarding the separating territories. Locals are increasingly resorting to self-defense measures, including forming armed groups to protect their communities.
Attempts by federal and state officials to mediate discussions between the conflicting groups have proven insufficient. A recent peace agreement fell apart within a day, leaving the atmosphere charged with mistrust and ongoing reports of violence, including assaults on security personnel.
Experts highlight that without acknowledging the past, it is challenging for communities to move towards a peaceful future. The government has been criticized for its handling of the crisis, with both communities blaming each other for perpetuating the violence. The Meitei community often cites illegal immigration from neighboring Myanmar as a contributing factor, while the Kuki community argues this narrative has been weaponized against them.
Political analysts emphasize the need for significant intervention from the state to resolve tensions, stating that establishing trust between the involved communities is vital and cannot be achieved overnight.
In Sugnu village, about 60 kilometers from Imphal, the division is painfully evident. Once a mixed community of Meiteis and Kukis, it has become a site of despair, with many Kuki residents forced to flee to safer areas. The ongoing fear of retaliatory attacks and the presence of local militia have created a tense environment.
Residents like Yumlembam Manitombi, who lost her son in the violence, express a longing for peace, stating, “Ending this war is my sole wish.” Communities are coming together to remember those lost, but the pain of conflict remains present.
In Churachandpur, a Kuki-majority area, security measures are similarly tight, with memorials honoring victims of the violence. Many displaced individuals continue to struggle, having lost their homes and livelihoods due to the conflict, leading to a surge in demand for aid.
Local lawmaker TBC Lalvenchhunga points out that resource limitations hinder the ability of the state government to adequately address the refugee crisis, calling for enhanced support from the federal level.
As blame shifts between local and national government officials, many residents feel the urgency for political accountability. Opposition parties have critiqued the federal response, highlighting a lack of action from leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
While the government claims a return to normalcy is underway, experts warn that without genuine efforts to rebuild trust, the wounds of conflict will persist. The call for peace is echoed across communities, as the path to healing is recognized as gradual and complex.
