Imphal: The fragile peace in Manipur’s Churachandpur district has been shattered once more, as simmering tensions between the Hmar and Zomi communities erupted into deadly violence this week. The district, already under a strict curfew, remains highly volatile, with security forces maintaining a heavy presence in an attempt to prevent further bloodshed.
The immediate trigger for the renewed unrest was the fatal clash on Tuesday night, which claimed the life of 51-year-old Lalropui Pakhuangte, a member of the Hmar community. This incident followed an earlier attack on Richard Hmar, the general secretary of Hmar Inpui, allegedly by Zomi individuals on Sunday. The attack on Hmar prompted authorities to impose a curfew, but failed to prevent the escalation of violence.
The district has ground to a standstill, with schools and businesses remaining closed as a result of the ongoing curfew. In the face of this turmoil, church leaders and civil society organizations have stepped forward, attempting to mediate between the warring communities. Security personnel have conducted flag marches throughout the district, and displaced members of the Kuki community, who were residing in relief camps, have been relocated to safer areas.
Amidst the growing unrest, tribal organizations and local Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) have issued urgent appeals for calm. A significant development has been the formation of a joint peace committee by at least 12 Kuki-Zomi and Hmar groups in Churachandpur, aimed at preventing further violence. Six MLAs from Churachandpur and Pherzawl districts have also called upon authorities to take decisive action to restore law and order.
This latest flare-up adds to the already protracted and devastating ethnic conflict that has plagued Manipur since May 2023. The conflict, primarily between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, has resulted in the deaths of over 250 people and the displacement of thousands. The state has been under President’s Rule since February 13, following the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh, highlighting the severity of the ongoing crisis.
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