Near-total bandh, memorials mark 2 years of Manipur strife

IMPHAL: Life ground to a halt across Manipur's Imphal Valley and Kuki-majority hill districts Saturday as communities marked two years since ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups erupted on May 3, 2023.

Shops and markets were shuttered, schools and colleges closed, public transport halted, and govt offices saw near-total absenteeism. Pharmacies remained shut in Imphal.

More than 260 people have been killed, over 1,500 wounded, and at least 70,000 displaced since the conflict began, with divisions deepening between the Meitei in the valley and Kuki-Zo tribes in the hills. Thousands continue to live as internally displaced persons (IDPs) in overcrowded camps and prefabricated shelters, grappling with trauma and economic hardship.

A "Peoples' Convention" was held at Khuman Lampak stadium complex in Imphal by Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI). Kuki-Zo groups observed a solemn "Day of Separation" with memorials at the Wall of Remembrance and Sehken burial site in Churachandpur. Candlelight vigils were held in both Kangla, Imphal, and Kangpokpi.

Normalcy remains elusive, despite the resignation of CM N Biren Singh and the imposition of President's rule in Feb. Kuki groups continue to demand a separate administration, while Meitei organisations have hardened their calls for implementation of national register of citizens (NRC) and deportation of what they term "illegal immigrants".

Govt-run skill development and livelihood programmes offer some relief in camps, but for many, hope remains distant. Armed groups wield growing control over both communities, fuelling extortion and recruiting disillusioned youth.