Manipur unrest lingers, no reconciliation in sight

Imphal

Two years after ethnic violence erupted in Manipur, peace remains elusive. What began as a protest by the Kuki community against a court ruling on Meitei inclusion in the Scheduled Tribes list quickly turned into widespread unrest. The state is now sharply divided along ethnic lines, with communities living in isolation from each other. Movement across regions is restricted, and society has become heavily militarised. Weapons looted from government armories are still in circulation. So far, over 250 people have lost their lives and around 60,000 have been displaced, many still living in relief camps.

The response from both the state and central governments has been inadequate. Former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, a Meitei himself, worsened the crisis by acting in the interest of his community rather than the entire state. His resignation earlier this year under central pressure came too late to undo the damage. Hopes for recovery under President’s rule have been dashed, with no meaningful action taken.

Attempts at dialogue, including a recent round of talks in Delhi, have failed to break the deadlock. The Kuki demand for a separate administrative region is firmly opposed by the Meiteis, deepening the divide. Governor A.K. Bhalla, despite his experience, has made little difference.

The central government has largely ignored the crisis, and Prime Minister Modi has not visited the state. Without serious efforts to heal the divide and promote dialogue, Manipur will continue to suffer in silence. The total shutdown on May 3 reflects this ongoing pain and unresolved conflict.