Manipur marks second anniversary of ethnic clashes with shutdown and demands for separate administration

Manipur observed the second anniversary of the ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities on Saturday, with a statewide shutdown and large public gatherings. The events were marked by demands for the free and safe movement of all residents and the establishment of a separate administrative arrangement.

The shutdown affected both the Meitei-majority Imphal Valley and the Kuki-Zo-dominated hill districts, bringing normal life to a halt. In Imphal, the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) led the shutdown in the valley, while the Zomi Students’ Federation and Kuki Students’ Organisation organized similar actions in the hill areas. The protests were a demonstration of growing unrest and demand for justice.

In the state capital, Imphal, COCOMI held a public convention at Khuman Lampak Stadium. The gathering, dubbed the ‘Manipur People’s Convention,’ saw speakers urging the central government to ensure “the free and safe movement” of all residents. A resolution was adopted, accusing the Indian government of failing in its duties and calling for a clear, time-bound plan to restore peace, law and order in the state.

The resolution demanded that the government formally acknowledge its role in exacerbating the crisis and take immediate steps for the restoration of security for all communities in Manipur. It also condemned the Suspension of Operations agreements with militant groups, such as the Kuki National Organisation and United People’s Front, accusing them of providing safe havens and logistical support to these groups since 2008.

Further, the convention emphasized the protection of Manipur’s territorial integrity, with a firm statement that any attempt to divide the state would be opposed. The resolution also called for addressing illegal immigration, alleging the use of forged documents by settlers in the state.

In Churachandpur, thousands of Kuki-Zo residents gathered at the ‘Wall of Remembrance’ in Tuibuong for ‘Separation Day.’ The event was a memorial for those affected by the violence, featuring musical tributes and the distribution of compensation to 127 victims by the Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights. Leaders like Ginza Vualzong and Lenminlal Gangte reiterated demands for a separate administrative arrangement, specifically a Union Territory, while calling for an end to the ongoing conflict.

(With inputs from PTI)

MT