The unrest in Manipur persisted on Tuesday as two individuals lost their lives and a minimum of five sustained injuries in renewed gunfire exchanges between two opposing ethnic groups.
Prolonged conflict
Manipur has been experiencing prolonged ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities since early May, resulting in a tragic toll of over 200 lives.
Mass displacement
The ongoing conflict has forced nearly 67,000 individuals to flee their homes, seeking refuge from the violence and instability in the region.
Peace agreement in November
In a significant development, a faction of the Meitei armed group, the United National Liberation Front (UNLF), signed a peace agreement with the Central government in November. This agreement involved a commitment to renounce violence.
Ban on extremist groups
Prior to the peace agreement, in November, the Centre imposed a five-year ban on UNLF and seven other groups, collectively known as Meitei Extremist Organisations. The ban, enacted under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act, cited their advocacy for Manipur’s secession through armed means.
Conflict background
The Meitei-Kuki clashes have deep-rooted historical and socio-political factors contributing to the conflict, leading to violence and displacement. The Centre’s efforts to address the situation include both peace agreements and legal measures against extremist factions.
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