Manipur Crisis – Summary
The Manipur crisis refers to ongoing ethnic violence and political unrest in the northeastern Indian state of Manipur, which began in May 2023. The conflict primarily involves two major communities:
Meiteis (mostly Hindu, living in the Imphal Valley)
Kukis (mostly Christian, residing in the surrounding hills)
Root Causes:
ST Status Demand: Meiteis demanded Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, which Kukis opposed, fearing loss of their privileges and land.
Land and Identity Issues: Long-standing tensions over land rights, migration, and identity have worsened.
Evictions and Drug Crackdown: Government evictions in forest areas and actions against poppy cultivation (linked to Kukis) created further mistrust.
Key Events:
Ethnic clashes broke out in May 2023 after a tribal solidarity march.
Over 200 people killed and 60,000+ displaced.
Internet was suspended, and curfews imposed in many areas.
Reports of sexual violence, arson, and militant activity added to the crisis.
Government Response:
Central and state governments deployed security forces.
The situation remains tense with calls for peace and justice.
Meiteis (mostly Hindu, living in the Imphal Valley)
Kukis (mostly Christian, residing in the surrounding hills)
Root Causes:
ST Status Demand: Meiteis demanded Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, which Kukis opposed, fearing loss of their privileges and land.
Land and Identity Issues: Long-standing tensions over land rights, migration, and identity have worsened.
Evictions and Drug Crackdown: Government evictions in forest areas and actions against poppy cultivation (linked to Kukis) created further mistrust.
Key Events:
Ethnic clashes broke out in May 2023 after a tribal solidarity march.
Over 200 people killed and 60,000+ displaced.
Internet was suspended, and curfews imposed in many areas.
Reports of sexual violence, arson, and militant activity added to the crisis.
Government Response:
Central and state governments deployed security forces.
The situation remains tense with calls for peace and justice.
