NEW DELHI: Two years after ethnic violence erupted between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities in Manipur, over 70,000 internally displaced persons continue living in overcrowded camps, with 260 people killed and 1,500 injured since May 3, 2023.
Despite President’s rule being imposed in February 2024 following the removal of chief minister N Biren Singh, peace remains elusive as affected families struggle with loss of homes, businesses, and uncertain futures.
The devastating impact of the conflict has left thousands waiting to return to their homes amid fragile peace conditions.
“I used to run a successful coaching institute in Imphal. It’s all gone now. With no source of income and three children, I am worried about their future. I can’t focus on anything. What is even more concerning is that there is no sign of how things will get better,” said G Kipgen, one of the displaced persons.
The situation remains tense as both communities maintain their opposing demands. While Kukis seek separate administration, Meiteis demand implementation of the National Register of Citizens and deportation of alleged illegal immigrants.
“My greatest worry is the future of my two little children,” said Abung, a Meitei IDP from Churachandpur district staying in a prefabricated home in Bishnupur district. “Earlier, I had a thriving grocery business. While living in a prefabricated home is better than staying in a relief camp, it doesn’t compare to the freedom and happiness of living in one’s own home.”
Despite government and NGO efforts to provide skill training to IDPs, the emotional trauma persists.
“In the first few months after the violence broke out, there was significant community support, and provisions arrived on time. But gradually, we’ve been forgotten. Often, we have to depend on the mercy of others for basic needs. It is humiliating,” said Abenao Devi, who lives in a prefabricated home in Imphal.
The situation has been complicated by armed groups gaining control over communities, according to a central security agency official.
“The most problematic and worrisome aspect of this two-year-long conflict is that armed groups and their associates have taken control of the respective communities. They are pushing their agenda ignoring the suffering of ordinary people, particularly the IDPs,” the official stated.
Security concerns have escalated with increased extortion activities.
“There has also been a massive rise in extortion by armed outfits in the Imphal valley and illegal taxation along highways passing through Kuki-majority areas. Several previously defunct militant outfits have been revitalised, recruiting mostly unemployed, poorly educated youth,” the security official added.
Both central and state authorities continue monitoring efforts to control violence and improve conditions for the affected population, but public frustration grows as normalcy remains distant.
IDPs from both communities express deep insecurity about their families’ future while struggling with severe psychological distress, many unable to comprehend their sudden victimization.
Many displaced persons have resorted to taking up unfamiliar odd jobs for survival, as both central and state governments struggle to restore normalcy even after two years of conflict.
