Editor
The ongoing Manipur violence has taken a distressing turn, with an ex-Militant group from Mizoram, known as PAMRA (Peace Accord MNF Returnees' Association), issuing a warning to Meiteis in Mizoram, prompting an exodus of the community from the state. The All Assam Manipuri Students' Union Central Committee (AAMSU CC) has also joined the discourse, advising Mizos living in Assam's Barak Valley to vacate the area for their own safety. These developments have raised significant concerns for the entire Northeast region.
In recent times, Mizoram, both its government and elite groups, has been accused of fueling violence by targeting the Meiteis community. The situation escalated when MZP (Mizo Zirlai Pawl) issued a threatening notice to the Meiteis living in Mizoram on April 30, 2023, even before the Kuki narco terrorists declared war upon native Meiteis in Manipur on May 3, 2023. Security forces have reportedly recovered arms and war materials in Mizoram meant for Kuki militants, raising suspicions of their involvement in creating chaos in Manipur. Provocative speeches against Meiteis in the name of Zo solidarity have further fueled tensions.
As a significant number of Meiteis living in Mizoram are from Assam, the escalating hostility in Mizoram has ignited anger among Meiteis in Assam, leading AAMSU CC to issue the advisory to Mizos living in Barak Valley. AAMSU CC, however, clarified that their statement was not a quit notice but rather an advisory for precautionary measures. They emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence between the two communities and reaffirmed their commitment to harmony.
While the situation remains tense, the Northeast region's unity and stability are at risk. The exodus of Meiteis and Mizos from their respective states is deeply concerning, threatening the region's social fabric and communal harmony.
Responding to the situation, DGP of Assam has urged the media to be circumspect in reporting and highlighted the need to work together to build peace and restore calm in the region.
The Manipur violence continues to be a complex and evolving crisis, demanding immediate attention and collective efforts to address its root causes and find lasting solutions. Authorities at both the state and central levels must take proactive measures to safeguard the safety and well-being of all communities in the region and work towards promoting peace and reconciliation.
As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for all stakeholders to exercise restraint, refrain from inciting violence, and instead focus on fostering dialogue and understanding to bring an end to the violence and create a path towards lasting peace in Manipur and the Northeast as a whole. The entire nation is watching, hoping for a swift resolution and a return to harmony and stability in the region.