Manipur Violence Escalates: Civil Society Rejects NDA’s Response, Issues 24-Hour Ultimatum

Manipur Violence Escalates: Civil Society Rejects NDA’s Response, Issues 24-Hour Ultimatum

November 19, 2024 Catherine Williams - Chief Editor News

Manipur Violence: Key Updates

  1. Ongoing Tensions: Manipur has experienced escalating violence since ethnic conflicts began between the Meitei and Kuki communities last year. The recent death of six individuals, including women and children, in Jiribam has reignited hostilities, prompting increased security deployments.

  2. Border Security: Assam has sealed its borders with Manipur to prevent potential spillover violence. The Assam Police are on high alert, using commandos at the border to mitigate risks from crossing “bad elements.”

  3. Political Pressure: Chief Minister N Biren Singh faces mounting pressure as calls for his resignation grow amid the violent unrest. His government is in a precarious situation trying to maintain order.

  4. Party Support Withdrawn: The National People’s Party, an ally of the ruling BJP, has pulled support from the Manipur government, citing a failure to restore peace. They indicated they could reassess their stance with a new leadership.

  5. Legislator Meeting: A meeting of NDA legislators, called by Chief Minister Singh, saw 11 of the 38 MLAs absent. The absence raised questions about party unity amid the crisis.

  6. Resolutions Passed: The attending legislators proposed resolutions, requesting a review by the Centre about reinstating the Armed Forces Special Power Act and conducting operations against Kuki militants for the Jiribam killings. They also suggested transferring key murder cases to the National Investigation Agency.

  7. Civil Society Response: Meitei civil society groups criticized the resolutions. Khuraijam Athouba, a spokesperson, emphasized that the violence has been widespread and not limited to Jiribam. They demanded accountability for all insurgent groups involved.

  8. Suspension of Operation Agreement: The government has not clarified the status of the Suspension of Operation (SoO) agreement with Kuki groups, which lapsed in February. Recent military actions suggest the SoO may not have been renewed.

  9. Ultimatum Issued: Civil society leaders issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the government for a revised resolution. Failure to respond may lead to intensified protests, including shutting down government offices.

  10. Government’s Reaction: The Centre is taking the situation seriously. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is conducting meetings in Delhi to formulate strategies aimed at restoring peace in the region.