'Going Home': Manipur's Displaced Meiteis Try To March To Villages, Clash With Cops

Imphal, Manipur – Tensions flared in Manipur's Imphal East district on Friday as displaced Meitei individuals attempted to march towards their abandoned homes, resulting in clashes with security forces. The incident highlights the ongoing unrest and the deep-seated frustration among those who have been internally displaced due to the ethnic violence that has plagued the state since May 2023.

The march, involving approximately 400 internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Moirang and Bishnupur, was triggered by discontent over the government's organization of the 10-day Sangai Festival amidst the backdrop of the ethnic violence and the slow pace of rehabilitation efforts. Moirang and Bishnupur are Meitei-dominated areas, while the intended destination of the march, Churachandpur, is a Kuki-dominated district in the hills. The marchers believe it is insensitive to hold such a festival when thousands remain displaced.

Security forces intercepted the IDPs at Phougakchao Ikhai, an area near the hill-valley border, preventing them from proceeding further. The protestors are refusing to return to their camps. Clashes erupted as police used tear gas to disperse demonstrators mobilized by civil society groups. These groups had also called for a cease-work campaign, disrupting normal life to further emphasize the perceived insensitivity of holding the Sangai Festival while so many remain displaced. Classes were suspended in all schools and colleges in these districts.

The ethnic violence in Manipur began in May 2023, following a 'Tribal Solidarity March' in the hill districts to protest the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe status. The clashes have primarily been between the Meitei people, who are the majority in the Imphal Valley, and the Kuki-Zo tribal community from the surrounding hills. The violence has resulted in over 260 deaths and the displacement of more than 70,000 people. Thousands have been injured and houses and religious structures have been vandalized.

The situation in Manipur remains tense, with the incident reflecting the continued divisions and grievances within the state. The march by displaced Meiteis underscores the challenges faced in achieving lasting peace and reconciliation. The demand for permanent rehabilitation before tourism events are held highlights the IDPs' desire for a resolution to the crisis. Manipur has been under President's Rule since February, after the resignation of CM N. Biren Singh amidst criticism of his administration's handling of the ethnic violence.