Ethnic Tensions Escalate as Protesters Clash with Security Forces
September 6, 2023
Introduction
In a troubling escalation of tensions. Manipur witnessed a clash between security forces and protesters who defied a curfew imposed in the Meitei-majority valley region. The conflict erupted as protesters attempted to march towards barricades separating Kuki-majority Churachandpur and Meitei-majority Bishnupur districts. Tear gas and rubber bullets were employed by security forces to quell the demonstration, resulting in several injuries and hospitalizations.
The protests were organized by the Coordination Committee (COCOMI), an umbrella organization representing Meitei civil society groups. Despite appeals from the government to refrain from the march to avoid exacerbating the ongoing crisis in Manipur. COCOMI members remained resolute in their determination.
COCOMI coordinator voices demands
Jeetendra Ningomba, COCOMI coordinator, emphasized their demand. By stating, “We want the barricades to be removed because beyond the barricades there are lands of the Meiteis. We want to resettle there and get our land back.”
Lambi Devi, a protester, expressed a similar sentiment. By saying, “We want to march to Torbung and Kangvai since it is our land and not theirs. The government is not seeing our plight.”
The heightened security situation has led to a significant increase in security measures, particularly in Churachandpur, located 35 kilometers from the Meitei-majority Bishnupur district. The barricades have been established in what security forces term a temporary “buffer zone” between these two districts.
Local residents, who have been unable to return to their homes in Torbung due to the barricades at Phougakchao Ikhai, fled the area when ethnic violence erupted on May 3.
COCOMI had previously requested the government to remove the barricades at Phougakchao Ikhai by August 30, but their request remained unaddressed.
Curfew Measures were informed
To maintain law and order, curfew measures were enforced in all five valley districts: Bishnupur, Kakching, Thoubal, Imphal West, and Imphal East.
A substantial contingent of security forces, including the district police, CRPF, BSF, ITBP, RAF, army, and Assam Rifles. It was deployed as a preventive measure.
Churachandpur Superintendent of Police Kartik Malladi assured the public, stating, “We will stop any kind of disturbance to the law and order situation in the areas between the two districts. Adequate forces have been deployed.”
The ongoing unrest in Manipur stems from ethnic clashes that erupted over four months ago, on May 3. The conflict was triggered by the Meiteis’ demand for Scheduled Tribes (ST) status, leading to tensions between the Chin-Kukis and Meiteis.
Conclusion
As the situation remains tense, both authorities and protesters face the challenging task of finding a peaceful resolution to the crisis, ensuring the safety and well-being of Manipur’s residents.
