Manipur, India: The northeastern state of Manipur is under high alert as security officials warn of a potential influx of 900 suspected Kuki militants from Myanmar. Kuldiep Singh, Manipur’s security adviser, confirmed on Friday that intelligence reports regarding the militants have been disseminated among various intelligence agencies.
Since May 2023, Manipur has been engulfed in violence between the majority Meitei and minority Kuki communities, stemming from disputes over economic benefits and quotas. Singh stated that border police have been notified, and combing operations are currently underway, particularly in the hill districts where Kuki tribes reside.
The Kuki people, who inhabit southern Manipur, share ethnic ties with the Chin tribe in Myanmar. Recent intelligence has emerged regarding attacks involving explosives delivered by drones, which officials allege were executed by Kuki militants. However, representatives from the Kuki community have denied these claims.
In response to the violence, Meitei protesters have organized large gatherings in Imphal, calling for decisive action against Kuki militants. Despite efforts to restore order, sporadic clashes continue, with recent violence claiming 11 lives earlier this month. Since the onset of the conflict in May 2023, at least 237 people have died, and over 60,000 have been displaced in a state with a population of approximately 3.2 million.
The situation in Manipur remains precarious, divided into two ethnic enclaves: a Meitei-controlled valley and Kuki-dominated hills, separated by a no-man’s land monitored by federal paramilitary forces. The escalating tensions have led to fears that the region is becoming increasingly reminiscent of conflict zones like Ukraine.
Key Points:
- High Alert in Manipur: The northeastern Indian state of Manipur is on high alert due to intelligence reports of 900 suspected Kuki militants potentially infiltrating from Myanmar.
- Ongoing Violence: Since May 2023, Manipur has experienced significant violence between the Meitei majority and Kuki minority communities over economic disputes and quotas.
- Security Measures: Manipur’s security adviser, Kuldiep Singh, announced that border police have been alerted and combing operations are in progress, particularly in Kuki-dominated hill districts.
- Drones and Attacks: Recent intelligence suggests that Kuki militants may be involved in drone-delivered explosive attacks, though Kuki representatives have denied these claims.
- Protests and Clashes: In response to the violence, Meitei protesters are demanding action against Kuki militants, with sporadic clashes resulting in ongoing unrest.
- Casualties and Displacement: The conflict has led to at least 237 deaths and displaced over 60,000 people since May 2023.
- Ethnic Divisions: Manipur is divided into a Meitei-controlled valley and Kuki-dominated hills, with a no-man’s land monitored by federal paramilitary forces separating the two groups.
