A princely state dating back to 33 AD, Manipur is a multi-ethnic society with Meiteis (valley-based, Hindu majority), Kukis, and Nagas (hill-based, predominantly Christian). The Meiteis have historically dominated the Imphal Valley, while the hill tribes have maintained relative autonomy. British colonial rule (1826-1947) formalized ethnic divisions by categorizing the community and restricting Meiteis from settling in the hills, sowing the seeds of territorial disputes.
In April 2023, the Manipur High Court recommended granting ST status to the already politically and economically dominant Meiteis, fueling protests by the Kuki-Zo and Naga tribes, who fear that their ST benefits (e.g., job quotas, land protection) will be diluted. Since May 2023, ongoing ethnic violence between the Meiteis and Kuki-Zo has led to serious violations of fundamental rights. Reports indicate that more than 250 people have been killed, more than 60,000 displaced, and homes, businesses, and religious sites have been extensively destroyed. Despite the central government’s increased security presence and the imposition of President’s Rule, the issues remain unresolved.
Resolving ethnic conflict in Manipur involving the Meitei, Kuki-Zo, and Naga communities requires a multi-pronged approach to address historical grievances, ethnic divisions, governance failures, and ongoing violence.
Promote inclusive dialogue and mediation: Establish a neutral, high-level peace commission comprised of representatives from the Meitei, Kuki-Zo, and Naga communities, assisted by impartial mediators (e.g., independent civil society leaders or retired judges). Hold regular, transparent inter-community dialogues to address grievances such as land rights, political representation, and resource allocation. Ensure that all groups, including women and youth, have a voice.
Address political and economic disparities: Reform political representation to balance power between valley (Meitei-dominated) and hill (Kuki-Zo and Naga) regions. Strengthen Hill District Councils (HACs) and Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) with greater financial and administrative powers. Implement an equitable development plan for hill districts to reduce economic disparities. Invest in infrastructure, healthcare and education to address tribal marginalization.
Disarm militias and curb violence: Launch a comprehensive disarmament campaign to recover an estimated 4,500 looted weapons (from the 2023 violence) and eliminate insurgent groups such as the Arambai Tenggol and Kuki militias. Provide amnesty for surrendering weapons to reduce radicalization. Strengthen and retrain security forces to act impartially and avoid bias against any community. Enforce strict accountability for human rights violations, including prosecuting perpetrators from all sides, to break the cycle of impunity.
Humanitarian and rehabilitation measures: Provide immediate assistance to 60,000 displaced persons to ensure safe return or resettlement with adequate shelter, food and healthcare. Establish rehabilitation centers with trauma counseling to address psychological impacts. Rebuild destroyed infrastructure (e.g., houses, schools, churches, temples) using community input to restore trust and normalcy.
Strengthen governance and central oversight: Ensure decisive action by the central government to restore order while maintaining neutrality, in line with the President’s Rule (implemented in February 2025). Appoint an inclusive advisory committee with local stakeholders to guide governance. Restore communication channels and avoid blanket internet shutdowns to prevent misinformation and promote community engagement.
Combat misinformation and build trust: Launch public campaigns to counter divisive narratives (e.g., labeling Kukis as “illegal immigrants” or Meitei as “outsiders”). Use media and community leaders to promote unity and a shared Manipuri identity. Encourage civil society and religious leaders to mediate grassroots reconciliation and organize interethnic cultural events to rebuild social cohesion.
Long-term structural reforms: Develop a federal framework for Manipur that grants greater autonomy to the hill state while maintaining unity among the states, and draw lessons from successful models such as the Mizoram peace accord. Invest in education and awareness programs to reduce racial stereotypes and promote mutual understanding among communities.