Krishna Kumar, the deputy commissioner of Jiribam district, noted that the violence had continued throughout the day, and the civilian who was killed had been shot while asleep in his room
MANIPUR, INDIA: In the northeastern Indian state of Manipur, recent clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities have resulted in the deaths of six individuals, including one civilian, on Saturday. This new outbreak of violence has prompted the state government to close all schools as a precautionary measure. The conflict, which has been simmering since last year, stems from disputes over economic benefits and quotas in education and government jobs.
Tensions were exacerbated by a court order directing the state government to consider extending special benefits currently enjoyed by the Kuki tribal community to the Meitei majority. The latest violence is the deadliest since clashes resumed a week ago. The situation escalated dramatically when drones were reportedly used to drop explosive devices, marking a significant intensification of the conflict. Authorities suspect that Kuki militants operated the drones, though Kuki groups have denied these allegations.
Krishna Kumar, the deputy commissioner of Jiribam district, noted that the violence had continued throughout the day, and the civilian who was killed had been shot while asleep in his room. Since the conflict began in May 2023, Manipur—home to a population of 3.2 million—has been divided along ethnic lines. The Meitei community predominantly controls the valley regions, while the Kuki community is concentrated in the hill areas, separated by a no-man’s land monitored by federal paramilitary forces.
The discord has resulted in significant casualties and displacement, with over 225 lives lost and around 60,000 people displaced. Earlier this month, violence had already claimed two lives and injured several individuals in Imphal West district. Further escalation occurred when a rocket fired by militants struck the residence of a former chief minister in Bishnupur district, killing a 78-year-old man and injuring six others. The ongoing ethnic strife in Manipur highlights the severe impact of these clashes, which have deepened divisions and instability in the region.
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