Need to break Manipur’s cycle of reprisal

Since the Meitei-Kuki clashes shattered Manipur's peace over three years ago, the state has been mired in a deteriorating spiral of violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities, now facing a widening divide with the Naga population. This week's killing of four Naga civilians in Kangpokpi, a predominantly Kuki district, has only underscored the ongoing cycle of reprisals.

This violence follows the May murder of Kuki-Thadou church pastors, prompting retaliatory abductions on both sides, and a month later, the discovery of six Naga men's bodies. The toll of the conflict is palpable, with blockades erected by Meitei, Kuki, and Naga factions disrupting supplies, driving up food and fuel prices, and limiting access to healthcare. Kangpokpi district, sandwiched between Naga-controlled Senapati to the north and Meitei-ruled valley districts to the south, bears the brunt of these disruptions.

Recent Right to Information (RTI) data has revealed that over 700 internally displaced individuals have perished in relief camps due to the conflict. Security forces have struggled to ensure the safe passage of convoys delivering essential supplies. The recent return of a state government led by Yumnam Khemchand Singh, a Meitei, after a year under President's Rule, has been met with limited success in bridging the divide.

The Meitei-led administration, comprising deputy chief ministers from the Kuki and Naga communities, has yet to make significant headway in quelling the unrest, despite the presence of representatives from all communities. Political representation by itself appears insufficient, as social segregation remains entrenched. True reconciliation necessitates a sustained dialogue and political process, empowering civil society leaders and ensuring every community has a stake.

Addressing the underlying issues of land and identity claims, while recognizing that swift resolutions are unlikely, must be accompanied by immediate efforts to establish a framework enabling safe movement, trade, and coexistence. Disarming militant groups and cracking down on extremism must also be pursued urgently to break this destructive cycle of violence in Manipur.