Indian Army chief General Upendra Dwivedi addressed the ongoing challenges and developments in Manipur during the Army’s annual press conference on Monday. He highlighted the coordinated efforts among security forces in the region, despite challenges posed by strong tribal affiliations and a scattered local police force. General Dwivedi also noted that the overall situation in the Northeast region is gradually improving.
Speaking on the ethnic violence in Manipur, which began in May 2023, he stated, “The overall perspective on Manipur as of today is that the tribal affiliations have taken a strong line. But we have to work with the whole of nation approach to ensure that the reconciliation takes place.” He expressed hope that the new Governor, Ajay Bhalla, would take significant steps toward addressing the issues.
General Dwivedi dismissed concerns about a lack of coordination among security forces, crediting the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) for ensuring ground-level cooperation. He explained that initial challenges arose due to the ethnic polarization in the police force, with Kuki and Meitei personnel limited to areas dominated by their respective communities. “Rather these three agencies are the only ones which are able to provide the coordination,” he clarified.
The ethnic violence in Manipur has led to over 200 deaths and a stark geographical separation between the Meitei population in the valley and the Kukis in the hills. This division has exacerbated the challenges faced by the police, who have been accused of partisanship based on ethnic identities.
Addressing humanitarian and disaster relief efforts, General Dwivedi emphasized the Army’s commitment to upgrading its capabilities. “Based on the experience gained in 2024, we have specifically allocated Rs 17 crores for upgrading our Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) and Quick Response medical teams,” he announced, underlining the Army’s preparedness for emergencies.
The Army Chief also discussed external dimensions of the conflict, acknowledging activities on the Myanmar side of the border. He noted that rebel groups clashing with the Myanmar Army had triggered a migration of refugees into India. “There was a time when even the soldiers from the other side had walked into this side. We have made sure that all those who are coming here are treated as refugees and due respect, consideration and harbour should be provided,” he stated.
General Dwivedi further revealed efforts to disarm and rehabilitate valley-based insurgent groups (VBIGs) entering India. “Some kind of surrender is taking place. We are disarming them and allowing them to go, after which police is looking after them,” he added.
Highlighting bilateral cooperation, he said, “We are interacting with each other in due harmony and making sure that the exchange of information and support which is required in terms of intelligence is provided from both the sides.” (With inputs from agencies)