Northeast Desk, 20th December: In Manipur, the Kuki-Zo community faced a somber day on December 20, 2023, as a ceremony was held at Tribal Martyr’s Park to lay to rest the bodies of 87 community members. A total of 41 bodies were airlifted from Imphal, and 46 from the Churachandpur hospital morgue.
The violence erupted from a dispute over affirmative action measures, particularly the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe status. Initially peaceful protests by the All Tribal Students’ Union Manipur escalated into violent confrontations near the Churachandpur district border.
The aftermath of the conflict has been devastating, with over 70,000 individuals displaced, houses burned, and religious structures vandalized. The Kuki-Zo community, constituting 30% of Manipur’s population, is mourning its losses, especially in districts like Churachandpur, Chandel, Kangpokpi, Tengnoupal, and Senapati.
Underlying issues, including land rights concerns, treatment of indigenous populations, and an influx of refugees from Myanmar following the 2021 military coup, have fueled tensions. The Manipur government and security forces, including Assam Rifles and the Indian Army, face accusations of partisan actions and insufficient protection for the Kuki-Zo community.
As the Kuki-Zo community honors the fallen, the urgent need for reconciliation, justice, and addressing the root causes of violence is evident. The international community, including the United Nations, has expressed concern, emphasizing the importance of protecting human rights defenders and holding perpetrators accountable. The ceremony serves as both a moment of mourning and a call for peace and an end to the cycle of violence.
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