The much-anticipated climax for violence, on January 3, 2025, fell on Kangpokpi District in Manipur as a mob got stormed into the SP office, pelted stones, and created public disorder. This was a widespread response to the non-removal of central forces from Saibol village, which is a very controversial area in the region. The situation has worsened with armed Kuki militants joining the attack on the DC office and police station plunging the district into chaos.
With this article, we look at what led to the unending unrest, what it entails, and the call for immediate action.
What Happened in Kangpokpi?
Attack on the SP Office
Protesters attached to Kuki-Zo entered Kangpokpi and began attacking the Superintendent of Police (SP) Office. Their rage was that became continued presence of the central forces in Saibol village and were armed with stones and other objects.
Locking-up of DC Office
This further raised tensions, which were already high, when Committee of Tribal Unity (COTU) volunteers locked the District Commissioner’s office.
Economic Blockade
In a move to ensure that extra pressure got exerted, an indefinite economic blockade was imposed over the region’s National Highways. Thousands of livelihoods have been disrupted, and this has largely affected the supply chain.
Militant Involvement
The situation worsened as the Kuki militants reportedly bearing high-tech weapons joined with these mobs; what began as a demonstration turned into a riot.
Underlying Causes of Violence
Ethnic Recognition
The wording of the Kuki-Zo community’s grievance often reflects historical and social roots, relating to land ownership itself, representation, and autonomy in the region.
Central Forces Deployment
Soon, it will save the presence of central forces in Saibol village from “a flash point,” wherein a community sees it as an infringement of its powers.
Conflict of Unresolved Political Issues
Manipur has named itself a home of long-drawn ethnic and territorial conflicts burdened by dry spells in effective conflict resolution systems, which fuel the fire of resentment.
Economic Blockade Effects
The country would soon feel the effects of the ongoing national highways blockade for an indefinite period.
Supply Chains Interrupted: Shortages of food, fuel, and medicine.
Loss of Economy: Halted Movement: Businesses and trade have suffered significantly from the total halt of transportation.
Humanitarian Concerns-Crisis: There is a sense that within the local populations, access to vital resources becomes a nightmare.
Government Response
Even as the whole crisis mounts, any immediate answer has been lacking. Microbloggers have therefore tagged @HMOIndia (Ministry of Home Affairs) and called for an urgent resolution to the standoff. Meanwhile, silence from the authorities has only served to intensify frustration and fear among the affected communities.
What Should Be Done?
1. Action for the Urgent Interventions: Deploy more troops to quell enmity and defend central government institutions from violence.
2. Dialogue and Negotiation: Prepare to engage the Kuki-Zo community and other stakeholders in addressing issues of their concern and finding a peaceful way forward.
3. Ending the Economic Blockade: There must also be steps to engage with the protestors concerning restoring the supply chain and avoiding a humanitarian crisis.
4. Long-Term Solutions: The underlying causes of ethnic tensions need to be prioritized regarding inclusive policies for equitable resource distribution by the government.