Source: The Hindu
At a meeting hosted by the Ministry of Home Affairs in Delhi, civil society organizations from the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities will engage in discussion for the first time since ethnic violence broke out in Manipur in May 2023.
In the presence of A.K. Misra, Advisor, Northeast, representatives from the Kuki-Zo Council, the Zomi Council, the Federation of Civil Societies, and the All Manipur United Clubs Organization will convene.
The Union administration opposed the continuation of President’s Rule in the State and believed that dialogue was the only viable option.
The interpretation of the Manipur High Court ruling that set off the unrest in the State in May 2023 caused the tribal population to become insecure about losing their reservation status, turning the matter into a “tribals versus non-tribals” conflict.
Seventy percent of the 260 people killed in the ethnic violence so far occurred in the first 15 days. Controlling ethnic conflict within 15 days is challenging. Thirteen meetings have already been held with the communities, and the last one involving both will take place shortly.
Model Question:
Discuss the causes and implications of the Manipur ethnic conflict of 2023. What steps should be taken to ensure long-term peace and reconciliation in the region?
Model Answer:
The Manipur ethnic conflict of 2023 highlighted deep-rooted tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities, resulting in large-scale violence, displacement, and a humanitarian crisis.
Causes:
- Ethnic and Identity Politics: The demand by the Meitei community for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status was perceived by tribal groups, especially Kukis, as a threat to their constitutional safeguards.
- Land and Demographic Issues: The Meiteis primarily reside in the valley, while the Kukis and Nagas inhabit the hills. Land rights and encroachment concerns further strained relations.
- Drug Trafficking and Insurgency: The hill regions have witnessed illegal poppy cultivation and drug trafficking, often linked to militant groups, exacerbating mistrust.
- Administrative Missteps: Delayed and inadequate response from the state machinery, and alleged bias, worsened the situation.
- Social Media and Misinformation: Rumors and provocative content online fueled hate and panic.
Implications:
- Humanitarian Impact: Over 200 deaths, thousands displaced, and extensive property damage.
- Security Concerns: Breakdown of law and order, with the re-emergence of armed groups and civil militias.
- Communal Polarization: Increased ethnic divide threatening the state’s social fabric.
- Centre-State Relations: Raised questions about federal handling of internal conflicts.
Way Forward:
- Inclusive Dialogue: Engage all stakeholders, including civil society, women, and youth, for reconciliation.
- Constitutional Safeguards: Ensure equitable development and legal protections for all communities.
- Security and Rehabilitation: Strengthen law enforcement and provide adequate relief and rehabilitation to affected persons.
- Media Regulation: Curb fake news and promote responsible journalism.
Manipur’s crisis is a wake-up call for India’s pluralistic democracy. Long-term peace lies in inclusive governance, respect for diversity, and proactive conflict resolution mechanisms.
