Manipur: The recent surge of violence in the small Indian state of Manipur has captured the attention of the nation, with many describing it as a state of civil war.
At the heart of the conflict lies a fierce struggle for land and influence between the two largest groups – the Meitei, who form the majority, and the Kuki, a significant minority tribe.
Geographical and Demographic Context:
Situated in the hilly north-eastern part of India, Manipur shares its borders with Myanmar and lies to the east of Bangladesh. The state is home to an estimated 3.3 million people, with Meiteis forming more than half of the population, and Kukis and Nagas comprising around 43% of the populace.
Origins of the Conflict:
The violence erupted in May when tensions escalated over the Meiteis’ demands for official tribal status, a move fiercely contested by the Kuki community. The Kukis believe that granting such status to Meiteis would further empower them politically, potentially leading to increased influence in governance and land acquisition, particularly in predominantly Kuki areas.
However, it is crucial to recognise that the conflict is not a simple matter of territorial disputes or religious differences. Several underlying factors have contributed to the situation. The Kukis assert that the BJP-led state Government’s supposed “war on drugs” is a pretext to displace their communities.
Ethnic Militias and the Flare-Up:
For decades, Meitei, Kuki, and Naga militias have engaged in small conflicts over homeland claims and religious disparities. These groups have also had confrontations with India’s security forces.
The present escalation, however, primarily centres on clashes between the Meitei and the Kuki, with ethnicity serving as the principal dividing factor.
Understanding the Meitei and Kuki Communities:
The Meitei community has deep historical roots in Manipur, as well as in parts of Myanmar and surrounding regions. Most Meiteis practice Hinduism, while some follow the Sanamahi religion, an ethnic religion of the Meitei people.
The Kukis, on the other hand, are predominantly Christian and have a wider presence across India’s north-eastern states, tracing their origins back to Myanmar as well.
Geographically, Meiteis predominantly inhabit the Imphal valley, while Kukis live in the surrounding hills and beyond, further exacerbating the divide.
Gender-Based Violence and its Catalyst:
The shocking incident of two Kuki women being paraded naked by Meitei men highlights the disturbing trend of sexual assault being employed as instruments of violence during conflicts. This particular episode reportedly followed unverified reports of a Meitei woman being raped by Kuki militiamen, thus fuelling a cycle of revenge attacks.
Government Response:
PM Modi condemned the incident, vowing justice for the victims. The government has deployed a significant number of security forces to the region to restore peace, but the situation remains challenging, with violence displacing thousands from their homes.
The State Government’s Role:
Manipur’s state Government, led by Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, who is a Meitei himself, has faced criticism from the Kuki community. The Kukis allege that the Government’s anti-poppy cultivation campaign disproportionately targeted their areas, implying a bias against their community. In turn, Singh’s Government accuses Kuki insurgent groups of inciting violence within the community.
The Way Forward:
The situation in Manipur is a complex web of ethnic tensions, territorial disputes, historical grievances, and socio-economic challenges. To find lasting solutions, a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of the conflict, fosters inter-community dialogue, and promotes equitable governance and development is required. Only through concerted efforts can Manipur move towards a path of peace and stability.