Fresh clashes in India’s Manipur state highlight ongoing ethnic strife, with 260 killed and 60,000 displaced since May 2023. Authorities imposed curfews and internet bans after recent assaults in Ukhrul district.
Manipur violence continues to disrupt lives in India’s northeast. The conflict affects regional stability, with potential spillover into neighbouring states like Mizoram and Nagaland. It underscores challenges in managing ethnic diversity in South Asia.
Recent Surge in Manipur Violence
Violence flared again in Ukhrul district this week. A Tangkhul Naga community member faced assault in Litan Sareikhong village. Houses burned. Villagers fled. Security forces deployed. Curfew imposed. Internet suspended.
A senior police officer stated the situation stays volatile. Forces work to control the area. This incident follows a pattern. Manipur ethnic tensions persist despite government actions.
Roots of Meitei-Kuki Conflict
Clashes started in May 2023. Meitei community demanded tribal status. This grants job quotas and land rights. Kuki community opposed. They fear marginalisation.
Meiteis dominate Imphal valley. Kukis live in hills. Dispute over tribal status demands fueled violence. Over 260 deaths recorded. More than 60,000 people displaced. Livelihoods ruined. Communities divided.
Pradip Phanjoubam, editor of Imphal Review of Arts and Politics, noted the conflict involves more than Meiteis and Kukis. Nagas and other groups must join talks. Selective empathy hinders peace. All sides suffered.
Government Response to Manipur Ethnic Tensions
Central government imposed president’s rule in February 2025. This removed state government power during crisis.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed parliament on 4 April 2025. He described the issue as ethnic violence from insecurity between communities. No terrorism or religious conflict. President’s rule brought peace. No violence from December 2024 to April 2025.
Ajay Kumar Bhalla, former home secretary, appointed governor. President’s office announced president’s rule on 13 February 2025. Governor’s report cited inability to govern constitutionally.
President’s rule lifted last week. Yumnam Khemchand Singh sworn in as chief minister from Meitei community. Deputies from Kuki and Naga communities appointed. This power-sharing aims to include all groups. Yet recent violence shows limits.
Babloo Loitongbam, director of Human Rights Alert, called the model positive. But top-down approach fails. Communities need safe space for dialogue.
Tribal Status Demands and Autonomy Calls
Kuki-Zo Council seeks separate autonomous region. Ajang Khongsai, president of Kuki Inpi Manipur, demanded autonomy for dignity and security.
Meitei push for tribal status remains core. It sparked initial clashes.
Political scientist Bidhan Laishram linked violence to identity politics limits. History of coexistence ignored.
Manipur violence reflects broader South Asian issues. Ethnic groups vie for resources and recognition.
Background
Manipur borders Myanmar. Diverse ethnic groups include Meiteis, Kukis, Nagas. Historical tensions over land and rights.
Violence erupted after Meitei rally in May 2023. High court order on tribal status review triggered it.
State government under N Biren Singh faced criticism. He resigned in February 2025. Central intervention followed.
Former Chief Minister N Biren Singh met coalition members in July 2023 to control violence. Security meetings held.
In November 2023, United National Liberation Front signed peace deal. Group renounced violence.
What’s Next
Peace efforts hinge on dialogue. Neutral mediation needed. Observers predict episodic flare-ups. No quick solution. Government must disarm groups. Rebuild trust. Sustainable peace requires addressing tribal status demands and Manipur ethnic tensions. Manipur violence demands urgent inclusive talks to prevent further loss.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, February 13th, 2026
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