Manipur Conflicts: Jaishankar Seeks Normalcy in Strife-Torn State, Cites Migrant Issue

NEW YORK: India's External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, has announced ongoing efforts to restore a sense of normalcy in the conflict-ridden state of Manipur. Jaishankar disclosed that both the central government and the Manipur state government are collaborating to find solutions aimed at returning stability to the region.

The state of Manipur has faced intense turmoil since May 3, sparked by ethnic clashes between the Kuki and Meitei communities, resulting in widespread violence. Tragically, the clashes have claimed the lives of at least 175 individuals and left thousands homeless.

During a discussion at the Council on Foreign Relations in New York on Tuesday, September 26, Jaishankar raised concerns about the role of migrants in exacerbating the situation in Manipur. He stated, "I think one part of the problem in Manipur has been the destabilizing impact of migrants who have come."

Addressing the ongoing crisis, Jaishankar added, "I think the effort is on the part of the state government and the union government to find a way by which a sense of normalcy returns."

Recent developments in strife-torn Manipur have led to renewed tensions, particularly in the state's valley areas, following the alleged killing of two Meitei students by suspected Kuki militants. Social media circulated photos of the two missing students, a male and a female, suggesting that they were taken on July 8, two days after their disappearance on July 6. This incident triggered mass protests and demonstrations in the valley regions.

Luwangbi, a female student, and Hijam, a male student, went missing during the peak of ethnic violence in Manipur and were allegedly killed by suspected Kuki militants. Luwangbi had gone out for a ride on Hijam's KTM bike after attending a coaching class and has not returned home since.

In recent weeks, United Nations (UN) experts have expressed grave concerns about reports of severe human rights violations and abuses in Manipur. The UN experts specifically cited allegations of sexual violence, extrajudicial killings, home destruction, forced displacement, torture, and ill-treatment. They deplored reports of gender-based violence targeting women and girls, predominantly from the Kuki ethnic minority, which allegedly includes gang rape, public humiliation, fatal beatings, and immolation.

The situation in Manipur remains highly volatile, with international attention and efforts aimed at addressing the ongoing crisis and restoring peace in the region.

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