MANIPUR, India: In a tragic incident adding to the prevailing unrest, Manipur guerrillas targeted an India Reserve Battalion (IRB) and its driver in the Kangpokpi district of the Imphal valley.
The deadly ambush occurred as they were traveling between Haraothel and Kobsha villages, leading to fatal consequences for both victims. The guerrillas, associated with the state’s majority community, orchestrated the attack, intensifying the ethnic tensions in the region.
Manipur, grappling with longstanding demands for independence from a significant portion of its population, has witnessed heightened violence.
The conflict escalated on May 3 following a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ protesting the Meitei community’s call for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The Meiteis, constituting about 50 percent of Manipur’s population and predominantly residing in the Imphal Valley, have faced opposition from tribal communities like Nagas and Kukis, forming the other 50 percent, primarily located in the hill districts.
The situation in Manipur is becoming increasingly dire, with the Centre accused of complicity, the State displaying partiality, and security forces facing internal divisions. The ongoing unrest in Manipur has broader implications, reverberating in other regions like Haryana, reflecting a concerning trend of escalating tensions and ethnic strife.
Renowned writer and activist Arundhati Roy highlighted the severity of the issue, stating that Manipur is experiencing a form of ethnic cleansing. She expressed concerns about the deteriorating political landscape in the country, emphasizing that while some regions may remain politically literate, others are witnessing a breakdown, creating a volatile environment.
The deadly ambush underscores the urgent need for comprehensive efforts to address the root causes of the conflict, fostering dialogue and understanding among different communities in Manipur.
