Report on Violence and Humanitarian Crisis in Manipur, India
Title: Report on Violence and Humanitarian Crisis in Manipur, India
Introduction
Manipur, located in Northeast region of India, is renowned for its picturesque landscape and is often referred to as the “Land of Jewel.” The state’s capital is Imphal, and it shares borders with Nagaland, Mizoram, Assam, and regions of Myanmar, namely Sagaing and Chin State.
Demographics and Ethnic Composition
Manipur is a multi-ethnic state with a total population of 28,55,794 as per the 2011 Census. The population is divided into valley and hill regions, with 58.9% residing in the valleys and 41.1% in the hills. The hill areas are predominantly inhabited by tribes, with a total population of 11,67,422. There are 33 recognized tribes in Manipur, which fall under the Nagas and Kukis conglomerates. The Nagas have a history of headhunting and a strong warrior tradition, while the Kukis are part of the Tibeto-Burman language group, similar to the Nagas, Ancestrally Kukis are related to the Mizos of Mizoram,India and China in Burma(Myanmar).
Political Background
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) currently rules Manipur, with 32 out of 60 constituencies won in the last elections. Of the elected MLAs, 40 are from the Meitei community, and 20 represent the tribal population (10 Nagas and 10 Kukis).
Reasons for the Violence
The violence in Manipur can be attributed to several factors:
Manipur high court admitted a review petition seeking to modify its March 27,2023 order, which directed the state government to recommend including the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) list. This decision sparked a wave of violence.
The peaceful Tribal Solidarity Rally on May 3, 2023, turned violent, particularly in the Churachandpur area. As news of the incident spread, Meiteis in Imphal began targeting individuals of Kuki origin or lineage.
An uptick in murders, home and church fires, and vandalism from the evening of May 3 onward led to a collapse in law and order. The days of May 4th, 5th, and 6th saw the majority of the burning.
Description of Violence (3rd and 4th May)
The attacks on Kuki homes were planned and sponsored by the state, and they included house-by-house burnings. Army trucks and state commando reportedly entered Kuki communities. Massive crowds of 500 to 1000 individuals engaged in extensive looting, burning, and damage.
Eight districts affected in the current violence in Manipur
Relief Camp Details
There are now roughly 54,488 people living in 162 relief camps spread throughout the Churachandpur district, Kangpokpi, and Imphal city.
Terms used by the Manipur Government:
To excuse acts of violence, the government has referred to Meiteis protesters as Village Guards, while Kukis who are also protesting are merely referred to as Illegal Settlers, Narco Militants, and Poppy peddlers.
Casualties and Destruction
According to reports: The confirmed number of deaths stands at 142, although there are indications that the actual number may be higher. Over 290 tribal villages were burned, along with 354 tribal churches, more than 4,500 houses, and other institutional structures. Specific instances include looting, destruction, and burning of 12 Catholic churches, pastoral training centers, schools, boarding houses, presbyteries, and convents.
Relief Camp Organization:
Relief camps are being coordinated by the Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF) and assisted by local government bodies such as the District Commissioner (DC) in respective areas. The ITLF places affected people in camps based on their local dialects to facilitate communication. Local NGOs and other like-minded organizations provide support through provisions and dry rations.
Visit to Relief Camps: Several relief camps were visited, including locations such as PTC (Pastoral Training Center) in Lamphel, National Games Village, St. Francis Xavier School in Moirong, Toibung St. Mary’s School Relief Camp, Don Bosco Churachandpur, St. Peter’s School, Government College, Vincentian in Pulmole, Senapathi, Saitu Baptist Church Relief Center (5), and Khongpopoi.
Major Challenges Faced by the Affected:
The affected population faces numerous challenges:
Lack of communication due to prolonged internet blockage entering its 3rd month.
Restricted travel and heightened army alertness
Implementation of curfew by 5 pm
Closure of schools and absence of a public transport system
Approximately 12,000 children affected in terms of school and higher education
Loss of shelter, land, and livelihood, rendering them homeless
Fear and anxiety about future, especially for children
Involvement of children as front-line warriors armed with weapons like AK47 guns.
Intervention and Contributions Organizations such as INM (Indian Network for Mission to Manipur) have intervened in the crisis. INM SURABI, along with DBMS led by Fr. Bosco P, has made contributions, including INM provinces provided 10 lakhs to AIDA-IND. The Bishop of Manipur, Rev. Dr. Dominic, VG, and Procurator, as well as the District Commissioner (DC) of Churachandpur, Mr. Dharun Kumar IAS, and MLA Shri. Haolholet Kipgen, have also played significant roles.
The report and observation was noted by Fr.Simolin, Director – DBMS – Chennai, on his recent visit to Manipur state:
Reflections and Questions
The report raises important reflections and questions, including:
The relationship between justice and peace in the government’s efforts to resolve the conflict
The nature of the violence: whether it is primarily ethnic or communal, considering the target of churches
The significance of tribal identity versus faith, given the involvement of multiple denominations
The report provides an unbiased overview of the violence and humanitarian crisis in Manipur, highlighting the causes, impact, relief efforts, and critical questions for reflection. Further investigation and actions are necessary to address the situation and ensure justice and peace for the affected population.
