Manipur Crisis: Civil Society Groups Advocate for State Integrity and Rehabilitation

Three prominent civil society groups from Manipur have urged the central government to uphold the territorial integrity of the northeastern state while seeking immediate measures for the rehabilitation of individuals affected by ethnic violence. They have also called for increased security for farmers working in the outskirts of the Imphal valley, according to sources.

The 19-member delegation, representing groups such as the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), All Manipur United Clubs' Organisation (AMUCO), and the Federation of Civil Society Organisations (FOCS), engaged in discussions with four officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), led by adviser A K Mishra.

Clashes have erupted between Meitei and Kuki villagers over land use near the Imphal valley. Ethnic violence has gripped Manipur since May 3, 2023, following a tribal solidarity march opposing the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The ongoing conflict has claimed approximately 260 lives, spanning both Kuki and Meitei communities, along with security personnel. While Meitei groups insist on the state's territorial integrity, Kuki-Zo factions advocate for separate administration in hill areas.

(With inputs from agencies.)