Ongoing Ethnic Conflict in Manipur
Violent ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities has been ongoing in Manipur since May 2023.
Over 250 people have been killed and 60,000 displaced due to the violence. The conflict is severely affecting women, children, and the elderly.
On November 11, 10 militants were killed in a clash with the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).
The militants had attacked security personnel and displaced people.
Recent reports include abductions of women and children and brutal killings of elderly individuals, further escalating tensions.
Weapons looted from police indicate a governance crisis, and the Kuki Students’ Organization has called for non-cooperation with CRPF forces.
Potential for Peace
The BJP-led state government has struggled to quell the violence, with many Kuki groups viewing the Chief Minister as biased, leaving peace efforts in the hands of the Central Govt.
The Home Ministry tried to mediate talks between Meitei and Kuki representatives in October, but no progress was made.
The Kuki community is calling for the creation of a Union Territory with its own legislature, which would involve dividing Manipur.
The Central Government has the resources and influence to facilitate a political solution that could bring lasting peace.
Central forces like the Indian Army are trusted by the Kuki, but political accommodation is needed for long-term peace.
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