Ethnic Violence in Manipur Escalates, Undermining Peace Efforts
BOROBEKRA, INDIA – Renewed ethnic clashes in Manipur’s Jiribam district have deepened the ongoing crisis in the northeastern Indian state, where over 258 people have been killed and 60,000 displaced since 2023. The recent surge in violence threatens to unravel fragile peace efforts amid longstanding tensions between the Kuki and Meitei communities.
On November 11, gunmen attacked Zairawn village, killing two Meitei individuals, taking six hostages, and exchanging fire with troops. The hostages, later found dead in a nearby river, included women and children. Retaliatory military action reportedly killed at least 10 attackers, whom authorities identified as members of the Kuki-Hmar group.
The violence follows earlier attacks, including the burning of Kuki homes and the killing of a Kuki woman, allegedly by members of the majority Meitei community. Tit-for-tat killings and arson have escalated, with both sides accusing each other of breaking a peace pact brokered in August.
Mounting Casualties and Rising Tensions
In Zairawn, over 18 homes were destroyed, prompting retaliation with nearly 70 improvised bombs targeting the neighboring Meitei village of Mongbung. Security forces, hindered by civilian protests, struggled to contain the violence.
Jiribam, previously a relative haven, has seen tensions rise as armed cadres from both communities flow into the region despite peace agreements. Intelligence reports indicate that militant groups from across Manipur have intensified activities, exacerbating hostilities.
Calls for Peace Amid Tragedy
“We want peace, but if they attack us, we must defend ourselves,” said Khuma Hmar, a Kuki elder. Conversely, Meitei residents, such as Prosenjit Singh, insist they are not instigating violence but are forced to respond to attacks.
The Indian government has declared Jiribam a “disturbed area,” empowering troops to conduct warrantless searches and use lethal force. However, local leaders fear the measures may not address the deep-rooted mistrust fueling the conflict.
As funerals for recent victims turned into rallies for vengeance, one armed Meitei leader vowed to continue the struggle: “The fight that started in Manipur will end in Jiribam.”
Authorities and community leaders continue to appeal for calm, but with armed factions entrenched and tensions running high, peace remains elusive in the state.