Defending Manipur’s Unity: Amid rising tensions between Meitei and Kuki communities, Singh emphasizes the need to distinguish long-settled residents from new immigrants allegedly involved in drug activities.
PC Bureau
Amid ongoing ethnic unrest in Manipur, Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Thursday called for unity among communities, urging the public to differentiate between legitimate concerns and attempts by unnamed provocateurs to divide the state.
Speaking at a public event in Khangabok, Thoubal district, Singh emphasized that excessive political maneuvering has confused the people and fueled internal conflicts.
Ethnic Violence Since May 2023
The state has been gripped by violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities since May 2023, leading to over 250 deaths and thousands being displaced. What initially began as a demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status by the Meitei community spiraled into ethnic clashes, exacerbated by allegations of illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and land disputes. The unrest has severely strained community ties and security measures in Manipur.
Singh reiterated the government’s stance that their opposition is not against long-settled communities but rather against new immigrants allegedly involved in drug-related activities. “We are all one — Thadou, Mate, Gangte, Vaiphei, Paite, Tangkhul, Mao, and Maram are all brothers. Our opposition was only to the new immigrants who are engaged in drug-related activities,” he clarified.
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Accusation of Political Collusion
The Chief Minister accused unnamed political figures of collaborating with forces seeking to break up the state. Without naming any individual or party, Singh alleged that “agents” operating within the Imphal Valley were aligned with those who want to destabilize Manipur.
Pleased to see the turnout at Meeyamgi Numit being held at the DC Complex, Porompat in Imphal East.
I appreciate the District Administration, Imphal East, and officials of the concerned departments for effectively addressing the concerns of the people and successfully… pic.twitter.com/xczuyiaruX
— N. Biren Singh (@NBirenSingh) January 30, 2025
“Those who want to break Manipur have used agents to provoke us. Such agents are in Imphal Valley and are siding with those who want to break Manipur. We have to be careful about them,” he warned. Singh’s remarks underscore growing concerns over the role of local and external actors in escalating the conflict.
Background: Migration and Drug Trafficking
The root of the conflict is often traced back to the state’s complex demographic and geopolitical dynamics. With its porous borders with Myanmar, Manipur has long faced challenges related to migration and cross-border drug trafficking. Singh’s comments about “new immigrants” are believed to reference undocumented settlers allegedly involved in the narcotics trade, a claim that has fueled tension between various communities.
Challenges of Trust and Reconciliation
Experts suggest that one of the key challenges in resolving the conflict is restoring trust among communities. Singh’s call for unity comes at a critical time when mutual suspicion between the Meitei and Kuki groups remains high. While the government has attempted peace initiatives, the accusations of drug trafficking and illegal settlements have made reconciliation efforts difficult.
Moreover, Singh’s statement points to a growing political dimension in the crisis, with allegations of certain factions exploiting the unrest for political gains. Civil society groups have expressed concerns that these accusations, without concrete evidence or names, may further fuel community distrust.
A Call for Peace and Vigilance
Concluding his address, Singh assured the public that Manipur will remain united. “Manipur will be saved and will not break,” he asserted. However, his warning against “too much politics” and collusion by political actors highlights the complex interplay of ethnic, social, and political dynamics in the region.
Observers believe that addressing the root causes of migration, ensuring fair land use policies, and tackling drug trafficking will be crucial for peace in Manipur. The Chief Minister’s call for unity and vigilance marks a step toward fostering resilience amid one of the state’s most prolonged crises.
