Manipur – a state at war with itself

Manipur remains a state far from peace, where violence erupts frequently and has a deep impact on communities. The recent killing of 10 Kuki “militants” in an alleged encounter with the CRPF in Jiribam district, bordering Assam, is the latest sobering reminder of the rising tensions. The region has been witnessing continuous violence since last week, including shocking incidents like the brutal rape and murder of a Kuki woman and the shooting of a Meitei woman working in her field. The minority Kuki community, which has faced severe persecution and suffered heavy losses, claims the 10 killed were village volunteers carrying licensed weapons. However, pictures of the seized weapons released by the CRPF cast doubt on this claim and suggest otherwise. While the CRPF may consider itself lucky to have escaped casualties, the manner of the encounter raises serious questions over both its necessity and the way it was conducted.

This incident is unlikely to end the cycle of violence in Manipur; Instead, it threatens to trigger more retaliatory killings. The root of the crisis lies in the breakdown of law and order, which has been worsened by the lack of competent leadership and effective action. When violence initially broke out on May 3, 2023, the Meitei community looted police armouries, arming themselves for destruction against Kuki establishments including schools and churches in the Imphal Valley. The apparent indifference of the Central Government towards the growing turmoil in the State is extremely disturbing and unacceptable. It is clear that a firm, immediate response is necessary. Without decisive intervention, including removal of the Chief Minister and imposition of President's rule, law and order will remain elusive. Only by curbing the instigators on all sides and re-establishing the rule of law can there be any hope for Manipur's long-awaited reform.