Renewed violence in Manipur claims three lives amid ethnic tensions

A shocking resurgence of violence has gripped the once-peaceful Ukhrul district of Manipur, shaking the very fabric of the state’s tranquility. Three village guards, aged between 24 and 35, met a gruesome end in Kuki Thowai village, a site that had remained relatively calm amidst the ethnic conflict that has gripped Manipur since May.

These guards, entrusted with the security of their village, were not just shot by armed intruders but suffered additional horrifying injuries. Police reports detail chilling marks made by sharp knives, and even more disturbingly, their limbs had been brutally chopped off.

Ukhrul’s leading police officer, Ningshem Vashum, shared this harrowing account with the Indian Express. He revealed the violent confrontation was linked to the state’s deep-rooted ethnic tensions. “Miscreants stormed the village, and amidst the chaos, these three brave souls were murdered,” Vashum elaborated.

The root of this tension can be traced back to a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ held on May 3. The march was in opposition to the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, a coveted recognition in Indian law that provides reservations in government jobs, college admissions, and electoral seats. This affirmative action aims to address historic inequalities and discrimination.

But the Kuki community stands opposed, fearing that including the Meitei community, which represents a whopping 53% of Manipur’s population, might diminish their opportunities and leverage in the job market.

The larger picture paints a grim portrait. With the Meitei primarily in the Imphal Valley and the tribals – Nagas and Kukis – inhabiting the hill districts, the state has seen over 120 tragic deaths and a staggering 3,000 injuries due to this ethnic conflict.

To quell this volatile situation, a massive deployment of 40,000 central security personnel, in conjunction with the Manipur Police, are striving tirelessly to restore peace and normalcy to this beautiful state.