Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently chaired a crucial meeting in New Delhi to address the escalating ethnic tensions in Manipur. The troubled region has been grappling with violence and clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities. Here are the key takeaways from the high-level meeting:
Engaging Both Communities: Minister Shah announced that the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) will initiate discussions with both the Meitei and Kuki communities. The goal is to bridge the ethnic divide and find a coordinated approach to resolve the ongoing conflict.
Increased Central Forces: The central forces’ deployment in Manipur will be bolstered strategically. Their presence aims to restore peace and tranquility in the state, according to an official statement.
Action Against Perpetrators: Shah emphasized that strict legal action must be taken against those responsible for violence in the northeastern state.
Preventing Further Violence: The home minister directed authorities to ensure that no further incidents of violence occur. Manipur has witnessed ethnic clashes for over a year, and efforts are underway to prevent any escalation.
High-Level Attendees: Security Advisor Kuldiep Singh, DGP Rajiv Singh, and Chief Secretary Vineet Joshi represented the Manipur government. Notably absent was Chief Minister N Biren Singh.
Senior Officials Present: Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla, Intelligence Bureau Chief Tapan Deka, Army Chief Gen Manoj Pande, and Army Chief-designate Lt Gen Upendra Dwivedi participated in the hour-long meeting.
Fresh Violence Concerns: Recent reports of violence in Imphal and Jiribam have raised alarm. The Centre is closely monitoring the situation, especially in areas like Jiribam, which had remained relatively peaceful until now.
Governor’s Input: Shah received a detailed briefing on Manipur’s situation from top security officials. Governor Anusuiya Uikey’s insights into the law and order scenario were crucial.
Health and Education Facilities: The chief secretary of Manipur received instructions to ensure proper health and education facilities for displaced individuals and their rehabilitation.
Safety Assurance: Minister Shah reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens in the northeastern state.
The roots of the conflict trace back to May 3, 2023, when ethnic violence erupted following a tribal solidarity march in Manipur’s hill districts. The majority Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe status triggered tensions. Since then, over 220 people from both Kuki and Meitei communities, along with security personnel, have lost their lives.
In Manipur, Meiteis constitute about 53% of the population and primarily inhabit the Imphal Valley. Meanwhile, tribals, including Nagas and Kukis, make up 40% and reside mainly in the hill districts.
As the Centre takes proactive steps to bridge the ethnic divide, the hope is that dialogue, increased security, and rehabilitation efforts will pave the way for lasting peace in Manipur. The challenges are immense, but the commitment remains unwavering.
