Kuki tribes, security forces clash amid 'free movement' in Manipur
What's the story
Kuki tribes in Manipur clashed with security forces on Saturday, as civilian buses resumed operations across districts. Service resumption was met with protests from the Kuki tribes, who are demanding a separate administration. Despite being escorted by security personnel, two state transport buses were attacked in Kangpokpi and Senapati districts. The violence comes after the central government announced there should be no road blockades anywhere in the state following the imposition of the President's rule.
Protest details
Kuki tribes protest against free movement
Kuki tribes have been protesting the resumption of free movement; they want a separate administration first. Protest visuals being shared show demonstrators pelting stones at vehicles, digging up roads, burning tires, and setting up barricades. Some protesters also hurled expletives at security forces and demanded they turn back from Kangpokpi district.
Ongoing conflict
Ethnic conflict in Manipur has led to loss of lives
The ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur that broke out in May 2023 has left over 250 dead and displaced nearly 50,000. The Kuki tribes have been demanding a separate administration since then. Home Minister Amit Shah had earlier ordered officials to ensure free movement from March 8 and strict action against those obstructing this process. However, tribal groups continue to oppose the move, insisting their demand must be met first.
Demands and objections
Tribal groups demand separate administration
The Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU) submitted an eight-point resolution to the Centre, demanding their call for a separate administration be addressed before unrestricted movement is allowed again. Other groups such as the Indigenous Tribal Leaders's Forum (ITLF) have similar demands. Valley-based Meitei groups have vehemently opposed such demands, alleging tribal organizations are trying to derail the peace process. The Coordination Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) and Meitei Heritage Society (MHS) condemned the resistance as an attempt to block reconciliation.
Flashpoint
Federation of Civil Society Organizations of Manipur plans march
The Federation of Civil Society Organisations of Manipur (FOCS) has announced a "March to the Hills" on March 8, when free movement would resume. Tribal groups see it as a provocation and intimidation toward the Kuki-Zo community. Hilly-based groups have submitted a memorandum to Governor Ajay Bhalla condemning the march as "a blatant display of Meitei fascism backed by the state to intimidate the Kuki-Zo people."