Imphal, May 3: Authorities in Manipur have intensified security across the region ahead of the second anniversary of the devastating ethnic conflict that erupted on May 3, 2023. Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) are conducting flag marches across Imphal, the state capital, while frisking and vehicle checks have been tightened in sensitive areas, including Churachandpur and Kangpokpi districts.
The measures aim to prevent any untoward incidents during the anniversary, which comes two years after violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities claimed over 250 lives, injured 1,500 people, and displaced more than 70,000. The unrest was initially triggered by a court order recommending the extension of Scheduled Tribe status to the Meitei community — a move strongly opposed by the Kuki-Zo groups, who feared it would lead to demographic domination and political marginalisation in their hill territories.
Tensions remain high as both communities prepare to mark the day with separate events.
The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), a prominent Meitei civil society body, will host a public convention on Saturday at Khuman Lampak stadium in Imphal. A candlelight tribute is scheduled for the evening at Kangla Nongpok Thong, honoring those they describe as “martyrs and victims” of the ethnic conflict.
In contrast, various Kuki-Zo-Hmar organisations have declared May 3 as “Separation Day,” renewing their call for political separation from the Meitei-dominated state administration in Imphal. Observances are planned not only in Manipur’s hill districts but also in major Indian cities like Guwahati, Delhi, and Bengaluru, reflecting the growing mobilisation of the Kuki-Zo diaspora.
These parallel events highlight the enduring chasm between the two communities. Since the outbreak of violence, the conflict has evolved into one of India’s most entrenched internal crises. Kuki-Zo groups continue to demand a separate administrative framework, while Meitei organisations remain firmly opposed to any territorial bifurcation.
The deadlock culminated in the imposition of President’s Rule on February 13, following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. The 60-member Manipur Assembly remains under suspended animation, although its tenure officially continues until 2027.
The Ministry of Home Affairs convened a tripartite meeting in April 5, bringing together representatives of both communities. While the talks marked the first formal engagement between the groups, no breakthrough has yet been achieved.
As Manipur braces for the anniversary of the violence, the atmosphere remains fraught, with reconciliation elusive, and the path to peace uncertain.
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