The state of Manipur in Northeast India has been grappling with violent clashes, driven by a combination of longstanding tensions between its hill and valley communities, the demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status by the Meitei community, and recent eviction drives. This blog aims to shed light on the underlying causes of the conflict, examining the demographics, the Meitei community’s pursuit of ST status, and the eviction drive that triggered unrest among the hill tribes.
Demographics of Manipur: Manipur is home to diverse communities, with the Meiteis constituting the largest group, making up approximately 64.6% of the state’s population. The remaining 35.4% of the population comprises 34 recognized tribes, classified as ‘Any Kuki Tribes’ and ‘Any Naga Tribes’.
Meitei Community’s ST Status Demand: Since 2012, the Scheduled Tribes Demand Committee of Manipur (STDCM) has been advocating for the inclusion of the Meitei community in the ST list. The Manipur High Court received a plea from the Meetei (Meitei) Tribe Union, seeking ST status for their community. They argued that the Meiteis were recognized as a tribe before Manipur’s merger with India in 1949, but their tribal identity was lost post-merger. The demand aims to “preserve” the Meitei community’s culture, language, and ancestral land.
Manipur High Court’s Order: The Manipur High Court, in its order released on April 14, acknowledged the long-standing demand of the petitioners and directed the government to consider the case and submit a recommendation within four weeks.
Tribal Groups’ Opposition: The state’s tribal groups vehemently oppose the Meitei community’s ST status demand. They raise concerns about the Meiteis’ dominance in terms of population and political representation, given that 40 out of 60 Assembly constituencies are in the valley. They fear that granting ST status to Meiteis might lead to the loss of job opportunities and affirmative actions granted to STs under the Constitution. Some also argue that Meiteis already have access to SC or OBC status and related opportunities.
Unrest Triggered by Eviction Drive: In late April, unrest escalated in Churachandpur after a mob attacked an open gym that was to be inaugurated by Chief Minister Biren Singh. This violence was triggered by the government’s eviction drive in the Churachandpur-Khoupum Protected Forest area, where 38 villages were claimed to be “illegal settlements” and residents labeled as “encroachers”. Kuki groups argue that this eviction drive violates Article 371C, which confers administrative autonomy to the tribal-dominated hill areas.
The violent clashes in Manipur can be attributed to a complex interplay of factors, including historical hill-valley tensions, the Meitei community’s demand for ST status, and the recent eviction drive. To find a lasting resolution, it is crucial to address the grievances of all communities and ensure equitable representation and opportunities for socio-cultural development. A thoughtful and inclusive approach that respects the unique identities and aspirations of Manipur’s diverse communities will be vital in fostering peace and harmony in the state.