Manipur authorities have reimposed a curfew in the Imphal valley and suspended internet services across seven districts as tensions continue to rise over the abduction of six members of a Meitei family and the discovery of three unidentified bodies. The fresh wave of violence has led to protests, attacks on government officials’ residences, and clashes between security forces and militants in the strife-torn northeastern state.
On Saturday, Imphal West and Imphal East district magistrates issued an order to restore the curfew, which had been relaxed earlier. The curfew, which began at 4:30 pm on November 16, 2024, affects the Imphal valley and will remain in place until further notice. The curfew is a response to the volatile situation after reports of escalating violence and unrest in the region.
In addition to the curfew, Manipur Chief Secretary Vineet Joshi announced the suspension of internet services in several districts: Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Kangpokpi, and Churchandpur. These areas cover both Meitei and tribal strongholds, where tensions between the two communities have worsened in recent months.
The unrest in Manipur stems from the abduction of six members of a Meitei family in Jiribam district, where three women and three children went missing. Their decomposed bodies were discovered near the Manipur-Assam border on Friday, leading to widespread protests and violence. The bodies of two children, including an infant, and a woman, were recovered, raising fears that these were the victims of the abduction. Local authorities have not confirmed the identities of the bodies, but the incident has sparked anger and led to renewed protests in the region.
The state government has appealed to the Centre to reconsider the recent reimposition of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in parts of Manipur. The act was reintroduced by the Union government in six police station jurisdictions across five districts following the continued violence. The reimposition has sparked further debate, with the state cabinet calling for its review and withdrawal, arguing that the situation should be assessed in the public’s interest.
Amid the growing unrest, legislators have also shown signs of frustration. Reports suggest that at least 19 MLAs are considering resigning, citing the increasing violence and threats to Meitei lawmakers. A legislator, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said, “There is no meaning in continuing to be a legislator in this situation.”
The violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities has been ongoing for over a year, leading to more than 240 deaths. The conflict is fueled by ethnic divisions, with Meiteis living predominantly in the plains of the Imphal valley, while Kukis reside mainly in the hilly regions. Both sides have withdrawn into their respective strongholds, and militants from both communities continue to carry out attacks, often using the rugged terrain to cross into each other’s territories.
In response to the violence, the Centre has deployed additional security personnel, including 2,500 paramilitary forces, to help restore peace and maintain law and order. However, the continuing conflict and recent incidents suggest that the road to peace remains uncertain, with authorities under increasing pressure to find a lasting solution.
As the situation in Manipur continues to unfold, the state government is urging the Centre to reassess its approach to the AFSPA and address the growing concerns over the security and well-being of its citizens.
The call for the withdrawal of AFSPA and the restoration of peace comes amid mounting fears that the prolonged ethnic violence may have long-lasting repercussions on the social fabric of Manipur, leaving the state and its residents in a fragile state of uncertainty.
Sources By Agencies