Authorities must safeguard all communities and put an end to divisive policies.
Sakkcham Singh Parmaar, 14 September 2024 (Haryana): In response to escalating ethnic violence in the northeastern state of Manipur, Human Rights Watch has urged Indian authorities to take swift action to restore peace and protect all communities. The state and central governments must work together to resolve conflicts, investigate human rights abuses, and hold those responsible accountable.
The violence involves armed groups from the predominantly Christian Kuki-Zo community and the largely Hindu Meitei community, with at least 11 people killed in recent clashes. Protests have erupted, some turning violent with demonstrators clashing with security forces and targeting government buildings. In response, the Manipur government imposed a curfew in three districts and suspended internet services in five districts until September 15, 2024.
“The state government’s response to the escalating violence in Manipur has only worsened the situation,” said Meenakshi Ganguly, deputy Asia director at Human Rights Watch.
“Rather than safeguarding vulnerable communities and maintaining the rule of law, authorities have intensified tensions through divisive policies.”
Manipur’s BJP-led government, under Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, has faced criticism for promoting Hindu majoritarianism, with the Chief Minister making unsubstantiated claims that the Kuki community is sheltering illegal immigrants from Myanmar and engaging in criminal activities. Since May 2023, more than 200 people have been killed, and over 60,000 displaced. Numerous homes, businesses, and places of worship primarily belonging to the Kuki community have been destroyed.
The recent wave of violence began on September 1, 2024, with drone attacks in West Imphal allegedly carried out by Kuki militants. This was followed by rocket attacks on September 6 in Bishnupur, and a deadly gunfight in Jiribam on September 7 between Meitei and Kuki groups. A Kuki man was reportedly lynched in Sekmai, and Meitei groups attacked security forces, resulting in further casualties.
The root of the conflict traces back to protests by tribal groups, including the Kuki-Zo community, against a May 2023 Manipur High Court ruling that granted land and employment benefits to the Meitei majority, usually reserved for tribal groups. Although the court revoked the order in February 2024, tensions have remained high, exacerbated by allegations from both sides.
Human Rights Watch and local activists have criticised the state government for allegedly supporting violent vigilante groups aligned with the Meitei community and failing to act against those involved in attacks and sexual violence.
The organization has called for immediate measures to protect vulnerable groups, ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid, restore internet access, and engage with civil society to address the deep-rooted tensions. It emphasised the need for fair investigations and prosecutions, as well as the disarmament of violent groups.
“Manipur’s government has lost the trust of its people due to partisan politics and its failure to protect them from violence,” said Ganguly.
“To rebuild trust, authorities must ensure justice for victims, hold perpetrators accountable, and protect all communities from further harm.”
