The importance of this territory transcends beyond Indian borders and influences. Not only does it affect the national security but also the stability and bilateral relations with other countries within the region. Amidst the current political and internal unrest, it is crucial to understand the intricate network of ethnic conflict, the desire for self-rule, and the wide-ranging effects of conflict on a larger scale.
The state has a long history of conflict and violence driven by a host of factors such as aspiration for self-rule, ethnic divide, differing world views and perceptions shaped and exploited by external and internal actors for their vested interests. The current conflict between various ethnic communities, the call for self-independence by some groups, the role of illegal drug racket in fuelling instability, and affirmative action to quell out the violence have impacted the peace and stability of the border state. Resultantly, the frictional dynamics has precipitated into different forms of violence, displacement, and destruction throughout its landscapes. Indeed, the situation has become so intense that sometimes Manipur is equated to a ‘war zone’[1]. However, with concerted and constructive efforts, the situation has gradually stabilised, giving hope for peace and normalcy despite the challenges faced by the violence-stricken state.
The main ethnic groups involved in the Manipur conflict are the Meitei and Kuki-Zo tribes[2].The conflict stems from animosity between the Meitei majority, predominantly Hindu, residing in the capital Imphal and the prosperous valley, and the Kuki-Zo tribe, that are mainly Christian which lives in scattered areas in the hills of the state. The Meitei community makes up half of Manipur’s population, while the Kuki-Zo tribe constitutes about 16 per cent of the state’s population[3]. Historically, tensions between these two communities have been dominated by competition for land, public services, and economic opportunities and further exacerbated by political leaders who exploit ethnic divisions for their own personal gain.[4] Ethnic claims continue to create divergence between the socio-political and economic ties shared by these groups. Tensions are thus intensified by contrasting perspectives on the integrity and indigeneity of Manipuri’s.[5]
Violence in Manipur intensified after Manipur high court decision granting Meitei’s ‘Scheduled Tribe status’,[6] entitling them to economic benefits, privileges in government jobs, and education similar to Kuki-Zo tribe[7]. This decision sparked protest by the Kuki student union groups who feared losing their identity and entitlements, leading to clashes that quickly escalated into widespread violence between the two ethnic groups in the state[8].
The state government’s response to the conflict in Manipur has been under scrutiny, with efforts to address the unrest through military curfews, internet suspension, and deployment of troops.[9] However, the complexity of the situation requires a more comprehensive and sustainable approach to ensure long-term peace and stability.
Beyond the borders of Manipur, this ongoing tensions have several repercussions and are of special interests of its neighbouring countries, which are within Manipur’s geographical proximity[10]. These external actors see this as an opportunity to enhance their footprints in the region, which might destabilise the equilibrium prevailing in the north-eastern region of India. This has prompted a need to review the security concerns in the area.
Through the provision of assistance, knowledge, and resources for peacebuilding projects, the government can play a crucial role in the conflict resolution in Manipur. It is important that an inclusive approach be adopted to promote dialogue, reconciliation, and peacebuilding. Various stakeholders, opinion shapers, tribal heads, and state government machinery to work in concert to launch initiatives to address the underlying causes of the conflict, dispel fears and uncertainty, and create understanding amongst the many communities.
The United Nations (UN) has expressed concern over the recent developments in Manipur. Independent UN experts have stressed peaceful resolution in Manipur to prevent violence, protect human rights, and ensure free exercise for all age groups.[11]
Promoting harmony among Manipur’s diverse ethnic communities is essential for sustainable peace. The government of India must prioritise inclusive dialogue, equitable resource distribution, and respect for tribal rights to address the conflict effectively. Investing in local peacebuilding initiatives and community-led reconciliation efforts can tackle the root cause of discord and foster stability. An Inclusive dialogue platform that encourages open communication and understanding between different ethnic groups are crucial for building trust and resolving grievances. Ensuring a fair distribution of resources, such as land and economic opportunities, can help alleviate tension and promote social cohesion. Respecting the rights of indigenous tribes in Manipur is paramount for upholding social justice and preserving cultural heritage.
By providing support to community-led peacebuilding and sustainable development projects, the government can address underlying issues and ensure lasting stability in the region. Community-led efforts would play a significant role in fostering unity and rebuilding trust among conflicting groups. Collaboration between various stakeholders and the government of India is essential to address the complexities of the conflict and pave the way for sustainable peace in the region. Manipur is important not only for its cultural richness, but also for its geopolitical importance. Addressing the root causes of these conflicts is critical to India’s national security and to maintaining peace and stability in this strategically important region of the country.
Endnotes:
[1] Harsh, Vimal. “Why Understanding Manipur Is Important for India’s National Security.” Firstpost, November 5, 2023.
https://www.firstpost.com/opinion/why-understanding-manipur-is-important-for-indias-national-security-13351162.html.
[2] United States Institute of Peace. “Understanding India’s Manipur Conflict and Its Geopolitical Implications,” n.d.
https://www.usip.org/publications/2023/06/understanding-indias-manipur-conflict-and-its-geopolitical-implications.
[3] Jazeera, Al. “Why Ethnic Violence in India’s Manipur Has Been Going on for Three Months.” Al Jazeera, August 9, 2023.
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/8/9/why-ethnic-violence-in-indias-manipur-has-been-going-on-for-three-months.
[5] orfonline.org. “Interpreting the Ethnic Strife in Manipur,” n.d.
https://www.orfonline.org/expert-speak/interpreting-the-ethnic-strife-in-manipur.
[6] Lakshman, Abhinay. “Manipur High Court Directs State to Consider Inclusion of Meitei Community in Scheduled Tribes List.” The Hindu, April 19, 2023.
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/manipur-high-court-directs-state-to-consider-inclusion-of-meitei-community-in-scheduled-tribes-list/article66756719.ece.
[7] Ellis-Petersen, Hannah. “Manipur: Why Is There Conflict and How Is the Government Responding?” The Guardian, July 24, 2023.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jul/21/manipur-india-why-is-there-conflict-and-how-is-the-government-responding.
[8] Ibid
[10] United States Institute of Peace. “Understanding India’s Manipur Conflict and Its Geopolitical Implications,” n.d.
https://www.usip.org/publications/2023/06/understanding-indias-manipur-conflict-and-its-geopolitical-implications. &
Reis, Lohanna. “How the Growing Insurgency in Manipur, India Can Have Geopolitical Consequences.” The Atlas Report, July 31, 2023.
https://atlas-report.com/how-the-growing-insurgency-in-manipur-india-can-have-geopolitical-consequences/.
[11] Meador, Megan. “The Crisis in Manipur Has Reached a Breaking Point”: United Nations Experts Call on Indian Government to Address Violent Clash and Religious Freedom Violations in Manipur.” ADF International, October 12, 2023.
https://adfinternational.org/en-gb/news/un-manipur.
By: Abhinab Mazumdar, Research Intern, CS3, USI