Manipur marks 3rd anniversary of ethnic violence with rallies and shutdowns
Manipur marks 3rd anniversary of ethnic violence with rallies and shutdowns
Rallies and shutdowns mark the third anniversary of Manipur's ethnic violence as Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities push for NRC, peace, and accountability.
Manipur observed the third anniversary of the violence that erupted on May 3, 2023, with rallies in Meitei-dominated areas and a shutdown in Kuki-Zo districts. In the Imphal valley, districts like Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Kakching and Bishnupur saw hundreds of protestors marching to press for the implementation of the NRC before the census and to safeguard the state's administrative and territorial integrity. The day underscored the enduring impact of the crisis on daily life and governance.
Across Kangpokpi, where Kuki-Zo groups hold sway in many areas, a total shutdown was observed, and meetings took place in Churachandpur to commemorate victims and advocate for reconciliation. In Bishnupur’s Nambol area, the United Protection Committee organized a public rally, while a convention called 'Three Years on Manipur Crisis' was staged in Imphal East by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI). The convention pushed a six-point plan aimed at guiding the central government toward lasting peace and drew attention to the need for accountability and inclusive dialogue.
Among the six points, one called for commemorating May 3 as 'Anti-Narco Terrorism Day,' framing the crisis as a narco-terrorism issue in local discourse. Families of missing persons continue to await word, a reminder of the ongoing pain that persists even as communities pursue political and humanitarian solutions. The anniversary comes as Manipur grapples with the path to reconciliation amid calls for a political solution from the Centre.
Analysts say the events highlight the depth of community divisions and the necessity for sustained government action and community-led healing to prevent a relapse of violence and to restore trust across districts.
