Manipur, a northeastern state in India, is currently grappling with a wave of violence as clashes erupted between mobs and security forces in the capital city of Imphal. In separate incidents on June 16, incidents of attempted arson, mob gatherings, and gunshots were reported, leading to injuries and property damage. The escalating situation has prompted authorities to impose a curfew in 11 districts and restrict internet services in an attempt to curb rumors and maintain law and order. This article provides an overview of the recent events and sheds light on the underlying tensions in Manipur.
Clashes and Attempted Arson:
On June 16, a mob of approximately 1,000 individuals in Imphal’s Palace Compound area attempted arson, leading to a response from the Rapid Action Force (RAF) using rubber bullets and tear gas. Two civilians were injured during the confrontation. Another group of around 300 people targeted the house of Minister Thongam Biswajit in Thongju late into the night, but they were dispersed by the RAF.
Mob Gatherings and Violence:
Multiple incidents of mob gatherings and attempted violence were reported across Imphal. Mobs assembled with the intention of vandalizing the house of State BJP President A. Sharda Devi near Porompat. Additionally, an Army column intervened to disperse a mob that had surrounded the BJP office at Singjamei. To restore order, joint columns comprising Army, Assam Rifles, RAF, and the police conducted flag marches in Imphal East district.
Gunfire and Property Damage:
Gunfire incidents were reported in Kwakta, Bishnupur district, and Kangvai, Churachandpur district, during the night. In Imphal West, an attempt was made to loot weapons from the Iringbam police station, although no firearms were stolen. Throughout the day, mobs set up roadblocks and torched properties, including a house belonging to Union Minister R.K. Ranjan Singh and a warehouse near the royal palace owned by a retired tribal IAS officer.
Background and Ethnic Tensions:
The recent violence in Manipur stems from ongoing ethnic tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities. The clashes initially erupted on May 3 after a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ was organized in protest against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Manipur’s population comprises approximately 53% Meiteis, residing mainly in the Imphal Valley, while the Nagas and Kukis, constituting around 40% of the population, reside in the hill districts.
Government Response and Measures:
To mitigate the violence and prevent the spread of rumors, the State government has imposed a curfew in 11 districts of Manipur and implemented a ban on internet services. These measures aim to restore calm and maintain public safety during this volatile period.
The recent clashes between mobs and security forces in Manipur’s capital, Imphal, have led to injuries, property damage, and a curfew being imposed in several districts. The underlying ethnic tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities have contributed to the escalation of violence. The government’s efforts to control the situation through curfew enforcement and internet restrictions are crucial to restoring peace and stability in the region. It is essential for authorities and community leaders to engage in dialogue and find lasting solutions to address the root causes of the unrest in Manipur.