Manipur, a small state in northeast India that borders Myanmar, continues to struggle with a resurgence of violence between the Kuki and Meitei communities. The clashes, which began on May 3 after a Tribal Solidarity March, resulted in more than 100 deaths and widespread arson and shooting.
More than 40,000 people have fled their homes since the clashes broke out. Sporadic incidents of violence and arson still occur, despite the strong presence of security forces in parts of the state.
Internet services remain suspended to contain the spread of hateful rumors and messages. Observers on the ground reveal a worrying situation, with reports suggesting a “population shift” between the Meitei-dominated valley and the Kuki-dominated hills. The state, known for its history of insurgency, is witnessing an exodus of both communities, demanding action against each other.
According to local experts, Manipuri society has seen a revival of “Meiteism”: a concerted effort to revive Meitei identity with a focus on the Hindu religion. The movement above all establishes Meiteis as the original inhabitants of Manipur. Kukis, however, adhered to more Muslim religious leanings.
With approximately 10,000 Jawans from the Army and Assam Rifles deployed, security forces are struggling to maintain control and protect essential assets and individuals amidst sporadic incidents. While the Manipur Police claim the situation is tense but under control, the state remains under unprecedented tensions, with the author of this June 26 clip describing it as “on the brink of civil war”.
opponent attacked
Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi was stopped by local police on Thursday (29) and tear gas was fired near his convoy as he was on his way to visit the northeast of the country.
Gandhi was traveling to Churachandpur district, one of the areas worst affected by the violence, when security forces stopped his convoy in Bishnupur, about 20 km from the capital Imphal, citing security fears.
Tear gas projectiles were fired to disperse a crowd that had begun to gather in the area.
“Seeing the situation on the ground, we stopped him from moving forward and advised him to travel to Churachandpur by helicopter,” Bishnupur Police Chief Heisnam Balram Singh told ANI broadcaster.
“There is a possibility of a grenade attack along the road along which Rahul Gandhi is moving. Thinking of your safety and security, we do not allow it.”
Gandhi’s convoy returned to Imphal and he reached Churachandpur by helicopter, said Meghachandra Singh, president of the Manipur state congress.
Several rounds of peace talks between the groups have failed and failed to completely stop the violent incidents in the state ruled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s political party.
(Reporting by Zarir Hussain)
Source: CNN Brasil
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