Three months since the eruption of ethnic clashes on 3 May, Manipur remains ensnared in a cycle of violence and uncertainty, claiming a staggering toll of over 160 lives. Despite the passage of time, the prospects for peace in the region remain elusive, casting a shadow of apprehension over the area.
Recent reports highlight the escalating turmoil, with a distressing incident reported on 5 August in Manipur’s Imphal West district. A rampaging mob set fire to fifteen houses in Langol Games village, further exacerbating the unrest. Amidst the chaos, a 45-year-old man sustained bullet wounds to his left thigh during the violent encounter. The victim is now under medical care at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), fortunately reported to be in stable condition.
United Naga Council to organize mass rally across Naga areas of Manipur urging resolution of Naga Political Issue
Meanwhile, the United Naga Council (UNC), the parent body of another major ethnic tribe in Manipur, the Nagas, has informed that a mass rally has been organized on 9 August, 2023, in all Naga areas of Manipur, demanding the resolution of the Naga political issue. The rally is set to take place in the District Headquarters of Tamenglong, Chandel, Ukhrul and Senapati.
This information was shared by Vareiyo Shatsang, the General Secretary of the United Naga Council, who stated that the rally aims to express the collective sentiment and urge the Government of India to demonstrate the ‘political will’ necessary to address the long-standing Indo-Naga political issue in the spirit of Framework Agreement.
He also said the intention is to achieve lasting peace in Naga areas and the northeastern region. The UNC has thus made an appeal to all Naga citizens to actively participate in the proposed rally.
Kuki People’s Alliance withdraws support to BJP as Manipur witness fresh violence
In a separate development amidst the continuing turmoil, the Kuki People’s Alliance (KPA) has chosen to withdraw its support to the Manipur government led by CM N Biren Singh. The KPA’s decision, as conveyed by its chief Tongmang Haokip, cites the ongoing conflagration as the reason behind the withdrawal.
“After careful consideration of the current conflagration, the continued support for the incumbent government of Manipur led by CM N Biren Singh is no longer fructuous,” read a statement written by KPA chief Tongmang Haokip to the state Governor, Anusuiya Uikey.
The KPA, which commands two seats in the Manipur Assembly, Kimneo Haokip Hangshing from Saikul and Chinlunthang from Singhat, has taken this step at a juncture when ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities have inflicted a heavy toll on lives.
As Manipur grapples with these complex and interconnected challenges, Prime Minister Modi is yet to speak on the Manipur issue in the parliament. The opposition has indeed moved a ‘no-confidence motion’ in the hope that PM Modi would show up in the parliament.