Manipur’s Troubled past, Turbulent present: Ethnic violence and the search for peace. It will take time to settle the issue between Meiti and Naga this time because we saw a different type of clashes and killings, and first time, even women and children were not spared, which was unlike people from the North East. But Lets know the history and background of this beautiful land.
Manipur : History, Crisis and likely way out
Manipur traces its origins to the ancient Kingdom of Kangleipak, also known as Meckley, located at the frontier of India and Burma. The region was home to various ethnic communities for centuries before evolving into an independent kingdom under the Meitei dynasty. Historical records of Manipur date back to the 15th century. In 1891, it became a princely state under British rule. Following India’s independence in 1947, Manipur merged with the Indian Union and attained full statehood on January 21, 1972.
Geography of Manipur
Manipur has 16 districts but is often divided into two main regions — the valley and the hills. The valley districts, including Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching, were once part of the old kingdom of Kangleipak, ruled by the Ningthouja dynasty. This valley area makes up only about 10% of the state’s land but holds a majority of the population
Surrounding the valley are low hills that cover most of Manipur’s geography. These hills are home to 15 Naga tribes and several groups from the Chin-Kuki-Mizo-Zomi community, such as the Kuki, Thadou, Hmar, Paite, Vaiphei, and Zou peoples. Manipur has 11 hill district to include Churachandpur, Chandel, Senapati, Tamenglong, and Ukhrul. Jiribam,Kangpokpi, Tegnoupal,Kamjong,Noney,Pherzawl
Historical Background
During the time of the Kangleipak kingdom, which was a British protectorate, Naga tribes often raided the valley from the northern hills. To protect the valley, the British brought the Kuki-Zomi people from the Kuki-Chin hills in Burma to act as a buffer between the Meiteis in the valley and the Nagas in the hills. The Kukis, who were fierce head hunters like the Nagas, were given land along the ridges to defend the valley below.
Ethnic Tensions and Violence
The divide between the Meiteis (valley dwellers) and the hill tribes (Nagas and Kukis) goes back many years. The Naga independence movement in the 1950s sparked insurgencies involving Meiteis and Kuki-Zomi groups. In the 1990s, the Kuki-Zomi militarized, demanding a separate state called Kukiland, which further increased tensions with the Meiteis, despite earlier alliances.
In 1993, violence escalated sharply when Hindu Meiteis clashed with Pangals (Muslims), and tribal Nagas and Kukis fought violently. One tragic incident saw more than a hundred Kukis massacred in a single day by Naga groups, forcing thousands to flee their homes.
Churachandpur District- Churachandpur, a district bordering Myanmar, is dominated by the Kuki-Zomi community and has a mostly Christian population. It is one of India’s poorest districts. In 2015, when the Meiteis in the valley protested for the introduction of an Inner Line Permit (ILP) system to control outsiders, equally strong protests erupted in Churachandpur opposing this demand, highlighting the continuing ethnic and political divide.
What could be possible Remedies
1. Assessment of ST Status Criteria for Meiteis
The criteria for granting Scheduled Tribe (ST) status are based on recommendations from several expert committees.
The Lokur Committee (1965) outlined five key factors: primitive traits, a unique culture, geographical isolation, limited interaction with other communities, and socio-economic backwardness.
The Bhuria Commission (2002-2004) broadened the scope to include tribal land and forest rights, health, education, local governance (Panchayats), and the status of tribal women.
In 2013, the High-Level Committee (HLC) chaired by Prof. Virginius Xaxa examined important issues such as livelihood, education, health, displacement, and legal rights of tribal communities.
Any consideration of ST status for the Meiteis should carefully evaluate these criteria and recommendations to ensure a fair decision.
2. Enhancing Border Security and Regional Cooperation
To prevent illegal migration and infiltration from Myanmar, increased monitoring and surveillance along border areas are essential. Strengthening economic and diplomatic relations with neighboring countries will also promote regional stability and improve security.
3. Protecting Local Identity and Promoting Peace
It is vital to preserve the distinct identity of border residents to distinguish them from outsiders. Establishing peace agreements with local insurgent groups will help maintain harmony and stability in the region by addressing their concerns and encouraging cooperation.
4. Repealing AFSPA to Improve Human Rights
The Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), enacted in 1958, grants extensive powers to security forces but has been criticized for human rights abuses. Repealing or reforming AFSPA is necessary to enhance the protection of human rights in Manipur. The government should ensure that the justice system is transparent and accountable to prevent misuse of authority by security personnel.
5. Encouraging Local Participation in Governance
The government should promote greater involvement of local communities in decision-making processes. This will help build a sense of ownership and inclusion, fostering trust and cooperation necessary for the peace and development of the region.
