Editor
MANIPUR: The state of Manipur continues to be plagued by escalating ethnic violence, with yet another tragic incident unfolding. In a distressing turn of events, uniformed militants in Manipur's Imphal West district forced residents out of their homes and launched a deadly assault, resulting in the loss of three lives and injuries to two others.
Reports suggest that armed militants, disguised in the uniforms of security forces, arrived in Khoken village on the border of Imphal West and Kangpoki district on Friday. Under the guise of a special combing operation, they coerced residents to leave their houses. However, instead of protection, the militants opened fire on the unsuspecting victims, leading to the tragic fatalities and injuries. The injured individuals were swiftly taken to the hospital for treatment.
The assailants, believed to be associated with the Meitei community, managed to escape before security forces reached the scene. Assam Rifles personnel, upon their arrival, took custody of the deceased victims. Following the incident, a joint operation involving the Manipur Police, Assam Rifles, and the Army was launched to locate the attackers, but no significant leads have been uncovered thus far.
Violence has been escalating in Manipur since May 3 when the High Court directed the state government to consider the demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status put forth by the Meitei community. Subsequently, tribal organizations organized a Tribal Solidarity March in the hilly districts on May 3. Unfortunately, this led to violent clashes between the Kuki and Meitei communities.
The violence that has erupted across multiple districts of Manipur has resulted in a significant loss of life, surpassing a hundred casualties. In response to the crisis, Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently visited the affected region, meeting with representatives from both the Kuki and Meitei community organizations and appealing for peace. The Home Minister further pledged to conduct an investigation into the Manipur violence through central agencies.
The Meitei community constitutes approximately 53 percent of Manipur's total population, predominantly residing in the Imphal Valley. The tribal communities, including the Naga and Kuki, make up around 40 percent of the population and primarily inhabit the hilly districts of Manipur. In the wake of the ongoing violence, numerous individuals have been displaced, seeking refuge in safer locations.
The volatile situation in Manipur calls for urgent attention and concerted efforts to restore peace and harmony. It is crucial for authorities to address the root causes of the conflict and engage in dialogue with all communities involved to find a lasting resolution, ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents.