Manipur Unrest: Kuki-Zo Community's Plight Underscores Need for Impartial Security and Political Solution

On November 18, in response to the escalating crisis in Manipur, Union Home Minister Amit Shah led a high-level security meeting, resulting in the decision to dispatch an additional 50 paramilitary companies to the state. This move highlights the Centre’s acknowledgment of the dire need to address the unrest stemming from the ethnic conflict between the Meitei community, dominant in the valley, and the Kuki-Zo people, primarily residing in the hill regions of the state. Despite these measures, the Kuki-Zo community continues to bear the brunt of the ongoing violence and displacement, further emphasizing the need for focused and impartial interventions.

The Kuki-Zo Community: Victims of a Prolonged Crisis
The ethnic violence, which erupted over a year and a half ago, has claimed more than 250 lives and displaced over 60,000 people, disproportionately impacting the Kuki-Zo community. As violence erupted in May last year, Kuki-Zo settlements in the valley were targeted in orchestrated attacks, leading to their forced eviction. The subsequent clearing of Kuki-Zo populations from Meitei-majority areas has created an ethnic divide, leaving the hill-dwelling Kuki-Zo community increasingly vulnerable.

Despite assurances from the administration, the Kuki-Zo people face continuous threats from armed groups allegedly backed by powerful interests. The persistent targeting of Kuki-Zo civilians, including women and children, underscores the gravity of their plight and the urgent need for security measures that prioritize their safety.

Jiribam: A Reflection of the Ongoing Insecurity
Recent escalations in Jiribam, a district home to multiple ethnic groups, illustrate the challenges faced by the Kuki-Zo community. While violence initially spared the district, it erupted in June when a mysterious Meitei farmer’s death was followed by attacks on Kuki-Zo households. Tragically, the killing of a Hmar woman, by Meitei militants, further escalated tensions.

The alleged lack of impartiality among security forces, particularly the state police, exacerbates the unabating tension in the state.

Security Forces: Bridging the Trust Deficit
The Kuki-Zo people’s mistrust in the state’s predominantly Meitei-dominated police force is well founded. Allegations that state police shield Meitei militants, including groups like Arambai Tenggol, while disproportionately targeting Kuki-Zo civilians, have led to calls for greater accountability. The Kuki-Zo community has generally placed their trust in central security forces, though recent incidents involving the CRPF have shaken this confidence.

The Centre must address these trust deficits by ensuring that security forces act impartially and with accountability. A thorough review of the coordination among state and central forces is essential to prevent biases and restore the confidence of the Kuki-Zo people.

Protecting Vulnerable Communities
The Kuki-Zo community’s plight extends beyond immediate security concerns. Their displacement from the valley and the destruction of their homes and livelihoods have created long-term challenges that require urgent attention. Rehabilitation efforts must prioritize the Kuki-Zo people, ensuring their demand for separate administration in the for of Union Territory with legislature.

The Centre must also reassess agreements such as the Suspension of Operations (SoO) with Kuki-Zo militant groups, ensuring these pacts prioritize peace their political demand. Also, any action against armed groups must be balanced with measures to protect Kuki-Zo civilians from collective punishment or undue targeting.

Dialogue: The Path Forward
The key to resolving the conflict lies in meaningful dialogue. The Kuki-Zo civil society groups have consistently called for justice and reaffirmed their demand for separate administration. The Centre must facilitate inclusive discussions that address their concerns, particularly regarding land rights, autonomy, and protection from ethnic violence.

A Call for Immediate Action
The Kuki-Zo community’s continued suffering is a stark reminder of the urgent need for a robust and balanced response. The Centre must ensure justice and security for all communities, particularly the Kuki-Zo people, who have endured systemic targeting and displacement from a majoritarian government led by N. Biren SIngh. Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s leadership will be critical in fostering dialogue, ensuring impartiality in security operations, and addressing the root causes of the conflict.

Time is of the essence. A failure to act decisively risks entrenching the divisions and prolonging the suffering of the Kuki-Zo people, who deserve the same peace and stability as any other citizen of India