Public Statement on the Manipur Riots: A Call for Peace and Unity

The Global Naga Forum (GNF) expresses deep condolences to the grieving families who have lost their loved ones in the recent devastating events in Manipur. We are truly saddened and at a loss for words to adequately express our sympathy for the immeasurable sorrow and loss you are experiencing. Our hearts go out to you, and we pray for divine solace during this difficult time. We also stand in solidarity with those who have been injured and their families, wishing them a swift recovery and strength in their journey towards healing.

The violent riots that have unfolded over the past days have left us appalled and filled with indignation. These hate-filled acts of brutality, particularly targeted at the Kuki communities, along with the looting, wanton destruction of property, and despicable burning of churches, are clear violations of the principles of human decency and civilized behavior. We unequivocally condemn these actions.

While it is difficult to accept that such sustained and widespread violence could be a spontaneous reaction to a peaceful rally organized by the Scheduled Tribe communities of Manipur against the Meiteis’ demand for inclusion as a Scheduled Tribe, the underlying reasons are not entirely apparent. It is important to reflect on the historical context, where the Meitei, as high caste Hindus, once held prejudices against the hill tribespeople, considering them inferior. However, times have changed, and the Meitei community now holds significant population and political power. It seems their aspiration for land and influence beyond the Imphal Valley has become a driving force. The Kangleipak Kanba Lup’s memorandum, requesting the inclusion of Meiteis as Scheduled Tribes, sheds light on their motivations, citing benefits such as employment opportunities and preservation of indigenous ethnic identity.

Examining the incidents and the lack of control exerted by security forces, one cannot help but recall Professor Paul Brass’s research on Institutionalized Riot Systems (IRS) in India. In Brass’s study, the explanation phase follows the preparation and action stages, where the political media shapes the narrative of a riot, portraying it as spontaneous, religious, and mass-based, making it seem unpredictable and impossible to prevent. This strategy disperses blame so widely that the architects of the violence remain invisible, allowing them to manipulate tensions and instigate further unrest to achieve their political goals.

Furthermore, we strongly appeal to the mainland Indian media not to sensationalize and exploit the ST demand by the Meitei community as a religious conflict between Hindus and Christians. It is essential to recognize that the ongoing situation in Manipur is driven by complex social, historical, and political factors, and reducing it to a religious binary would be misleading and detrimental to fostering peace and unity. We urge the media to report responsibly, promote unbiased narratives, and contribute to a constructive dialogue that promotes understanding and harmony among all communities involved.

The Global Naga Forum urgently appeals for an end to violence on all fronts. We call upon Nagas worldwide to remain vigilant, understanding that the challenges of the present and the pursuit of a better future are more crucial than dwelling on the darker aspects of the past and the current situation. Let us strive for peace, unity, and understanding as we work towards a harmonious society where every individual is respected and valued.

Together, we can overcome these divisive forces and build a future that is marked by compassion, justice, and inclusivity. May the voices of reason and reconciliation prevail, and may Manipur and its diverse communities find healing and prosperity in the days ahead.

Media Cell.
Global Naga Forum.