In a bid to assess the current status of ethnic violence in Manipur, the Supreme Court of India has directed the state government to submit an updated report on the situation. The court, which will reconvene on July 10, aims to gain a comprehensive understanding of the progress made in restoring peace and harmony in the region.
During a brief hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre and Manipur government, informed the apex court that while the situation in the state is improving, the progress is gradual. This statement comes on the heels of the United Peoples’ Front (UPF) and Kuki National Organisation (KNO), two umbrella Kuki organizations, announcing the withdrawal of roadblocks in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on National Highway 2.
In a joint statement, these organizations, which include former militant groups that have signed suspension of operations pacts with the government, declared an immediate lifting of the blockade on the highway. This decision was prompted by an appeal from Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who expressed deep concern for restoring peace and harmony in the state.
However, it should be noted that the Kuki civil society group Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU), which initiated a roadblock on NH-2 two months ago, has not yet officially withdrawn their agitation. Manipur has two national highways, NH-2 (Imphal-Dimapur) and NH-37 (Imphal-Jiribam), both of which have faced significant disruptions due to the ongoing violence.
The conflict, which began on May 3, has claimed the lives of over 100 individuals from the Meitei and Kuki communities in Manipur. Meiteis, who comprise approximately 53 percent of Manipur’s population and primarily reside in the Imphal Valley, have been engaged in clashes with Nagas and Kukis, who make up around 40 percent of the population and inhabit the hill districts.
The Manipur government’s updated report will provide the Supreme Court with crucial insights into the progress made in resolving the ethnic tensions. The court’s objective is to ensure that appropriate measures are being taken to restore peace, safeguard the rights of all communities, and prevent further loss of life.
With the situation in Manipur showing signs of improvement, albeit at a slow pace, the Supreme Court’s intervention and continued oversight serve as a beacon of hope for those affected by the violence. The state government, along with various stakeholders, must work diligently to address the underlying causes of the conflict and establish lasting peace in Manipur.
Sources By Agencies
