Manipur has been engulfed in ethnic violence since May 2023, resulting in over 200 fatalities
The Indian Army is actively coordinating with other security forces to manage the volatile situation in Manipur, despite challenges posed by deep-rooted tribal affiliations and a fragmented local police force. Speaking at the Army’s annual press conference on Monday, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi outlined the complexities on the ground and expressed optimism about progress under the state’s new Governor, Ajay Bhalla.
“The overall perspective on Manipur as of today is that the tribal affiliations have taken a strong line. But we have to work with the whole-of-nation approach to ensure that reconciliation takes place. I am very hopeful with the new Governor… that steps towards this will be taken,” General Dwivedi said.
Ethnic Tensions & Security Dynamics
Manipur has been engulfed in ethnic violence since May 2023, resulting in over 200 fatalities. Clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities have led to a geographical and social divide, with the Meiteis retreating to the valley and the Kukis moving to the hills. This separation has extended to the local police force, which is now divided along ethnic lines. Kuki policemen operate in hill districts, while Meitei officers are stationed in the valley, leading to accusations of bias based on ethnicity.
Addressing concerns about a lack of coordination among forces, General Dwivedi credited the central forces, including the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), for ensuring cooperation across different areas. “There is no lack of coordination among forces. But we have to understand which side is where,” he said.
He elaborated on how the conflict has affected local policing. “When this problem occurred in May 2023, the police from various communities… it was very difficult for them to go to different community areas. So, the DGP issued orders for officers to report to the nearest police station within their community, allowing them to perform their duties,” General Dwivedi explained.
External Factors & Cross-Border Concerns
The Army Chief also pointed to external dimensions contributing to the unrest. “There are some activities taking place on the Myanmar side. It is claimed that rebel groups are fighting with the Myanmar Army. As a result, there is a migration that is taking place, leading to an influx of refugees,” he said.
General Dwivedi noted that some insurgents from Myanmar had crossed into India. “We have made sure that all those coming here are treated as refugees with due respect and consideration,” he added.
The Army has also taken steps to disarm insurgents crossing over and ensure their surrender, handing them over to the local police for further action.
Collaboration With Myanmar
To address cross-border issues, the Indian Army is maintaining regular communication with its Myanmar counterpart. “We are interacting with each other in due harmony and ensuring that information and intelligence support is exchanged from both sides,” General Dwivedi said.
General Dwivedi acknowledged the challenges posed by the tribal affiliations and social divides in Manipur but stressed the importance of a coordinated approach involving all stakeholders. His comments reflected a commitment to fostering reconciliation and restoring peace in the conflict-hit state, even as the situation remains fragile.
The Army Chief’s remarks underscore the need for continued collaboration, both domestically and internationally, to address the root causes of the violence and build a path towards long-term stability in Manipur.
