IMPHAL: The Indian army reported on Sunday that approximately 23,000 people have fled their homes due to ethnic violence in northeast India, which has resulted in at least 54 deaths.
While there were no new reports of major violence overnight, tensions remain high in Manipur state following clashes that erupted after a tribal group’s protest march last week.
The unrest in Manipur state escalated quickly, with clashes leading to the burning of vehicles and houses, as well as authorities resorting to tear gas to control the situation.
In response, the military has deployed thousands of troops to the state, issued “shoot-at-sight” orders in extreme cases, imposed curfews, and disrupted internet services.
Providing an update, the army stated that no significant flare-ups occurred overnight, and a curfew was lifted from 7-10 am in Churachandpur district, one of the main flashpoint areas.
The military has also increased surveillance efforts, utilizing aerial surveillance, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and redeploying army helicopters within the Imphal Valley.
According to the army’s statement, a total of 23,000 civilians have been rescued and relocated to military garrisons and operating bases.
India’s media reports 54 deaths
While official figures on the death toll have not been released, local media reported a combined total of 54 deaths based on information from hospital morgues in Imphal and Churachandpur.
The root cause of the violence stems from the dissatisfaction of tribal groups, particularly the Kukis, regarding the possible recognition of the state’s majority Meitei community under the “Scheduled Tribe” category.
This classification would grant the Meitei community certain privileges, such as quotas for government jobs and college admissions, aimed at addressing structural inequality and discrimination.
L. Sanglun Simte, a Kuki resident who has sought refuge with his family, expressed fear and described the attacks targeting Kukis.
He shared the tragic account of his cousin’s death at the hands of a mob and the burning of their house. Simte also criticized the lack of assistance from local police during the violence.
Another individual, Lalpu Suantak, who is also from the Kuki community, narrated how he and his family had to flee their home after witnessing the destruction of neighboring houses and a local church.
While his house remains untouched for now, Suantak expressed concern and highlighted the fear that engulfed the community.
The northeastern region of India has witnessed prolonged unrest, with various ethnic and separatist groups demanding greater autonomy or even secession. In Manipur alone, more than 50,000 lives have been lost since the 1950s due to these conflicts.
In recent years, some groups have reached agreements with the Indian government to secure additional powers, leading to a reduction in violence.
