IMPHAL, India: Ethnic violence has intensified again in India’s north-eastern Manipur state, as at least three more people were killed in an armed attack, Indian media reported.
According to reports from Indian media, three people were killed when armed militia from the Meite community launched an assault on Kuki tribal residents. The tragic incident also resulted in the destruction of seventeen homes and three commercial establishments.
The ethnic clashes started in May 2023, and have led to hundreds of casualties and displaced more than 60,000 people across the area. Various residential buildings, businesses, and places of worship have been destroyed in the continued unrest.
The conflict, reached a new peak in September when Kuki separatists launched a series of attacks in the Imphal city.
So far Modi’s led BJP administration has failed to restore peace and stability in the violence-hit state which continues to grapple with ethnic, religious and linguistic tensions during the government’s third term.
It is pertinent to mention that the BJP lost its two Manipur parliamentary seats in the recent elections, due to the frustration and anger among the Meitei and Kuki communities. Even though Modi claims that Manipur will return to normalcy, the reality is quite different.
READ ALSO: Israel Pounds Gaza, Lebanon as Ceasefire Efforts Falter
The resurrection of militancy in Manipur is not an isolated phenomenon but rather part of a broader pattern of extremism that has engulfed India. Under Modi’s government, extremist ideologies have been promoted at the expense of religious and ethnic minorities.
Hindutva’s emphasis under Modi’s leadership has led to a situation where minorities feel more isolated and powerless.
The Congress Party has also criticised the Indian government over the ongoing violence in Manipur, labelling Home Minister Amit Shah a complete failure in managing the crisis in the state while demanding his resignation.
During a joint press conference, Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate and Manipur Congress chief K. Meghachandra slammed Modi for not visiting the violence-hit state in the past 16 months.
International observers have also voiced growing concern over the deteriorating situation in Manipur. Global human rights organisations have called for a more effective and compassionate response from the Indian government.
Local leaders and humanitarian groups have called on the central government to take immediate and decisive action to restore peace and normalcy in Manipur.
