Internet suspended, curfew imposed and army deployed as protests turn violent in Manipur

Manipur CM calls it misunderstanding between communities

To address the deteriorating peace and order situation in Manipur after tribal groups staged rallies in multiple districts, the state government has stopped mobile internet for five days. A night curfew has been enforced in numerous parts of the state, in addition to a prohibition on big gatherings. According to ANI, the Army and the paramilitary forces have been deployed to quell the situation.

Lt Col Mahender Rawat, a public relations officer (defence) headquartered in Guwahati, stated that approximately 4000 persons had been housed in army, Assam Rifles, and state government facilities. "Flag marches are being conducted to keep the situation under control," he explained. "More people are being relocated from conflict zones."

Violence broke out during the 'Tribal Solidarity March' called by the All Tribal Student Union Manipur (ATSUM) in the Torbung area of Churachandpur district to protest the demand of non-tribal Meiteis, who dominate the Imphal Valley, for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Thousands of tribals -- who make up about 40 per cent of the state's population -- joined the processions, waved placards and raised slogans opposing ST status for the Meitei.

ATSUM which led the protests and imposed a curfew, disputed charges that protestors who took part in the solidarity march were violent. "The peaceful solidarity march came to an end." However, soon after, the Anglo-Kuki War Memorial Gate in Churachandpur was set on fire. "That's when the violence broke out," claimed ATSUM president Paotinthang Lupheng.

N Biren Singh, the chief minister, blamed the violence on "prevailing misunderstandings between two sections of society" and promised to address long-standing problems of communities in discussions with them and their representatives.