NewKerala.com

Key Points

Manipur is experiencing a tense commemoration of the two-year anniversary of devastating ethnic violence. Student organizations from Kuki-Zomi and Meitei communities have called for a complete shutdown to remember those killed and displaced. The state remains under President's Rule following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. Tensions persist as security forces remain on high alert to prevent potential further conflicts.

Key Points: Manipur Bandh Marks Two Years of Ethnic Conflict

  • Businesses and schools closed statewide in remembrance
  • Black flags to be hoisted across Manipur
  • Over 260 people killed since May 2023 violence
  • Chief Minister N. Biren Singh resigned earlier this year
2 min read

Businesses, educational institutions in Manipur to remain shut today as Meiteis, Kuki-Zomi bodies call for bandh

Meitei and Kuki-Zomi groups observe shutdown commemorating 2023 violence, with black flags and remembrance events across Manipur

"A day of silence to remember those we lost - Zomi Students' Federation"

New Delhi, May 3

Businesses and educational institutions in Manipur will remain shut on Saturday as Meiteis and Kuki-Zomi bodies have called for a bandh to mark the second anniversary of the ethnic violence that erupted in the state in May 2023.

Student organisations representing the Kuki-Zomi community have announced a complete shutdown of educational institutions and business establishments in parts of Manipur on Saturday.

According to the two student bodies, the Zomi Students' Federation (ZSF) and the Kuki Students' Organisation (KSO), Saturday will be observed in silence as a day of remembrance for those who lost their lives and were displaced during the conflict.

They have urged residents in Kuki-dominated areas to participate in the shutdown and hoist black flags at their homes as a symbol of mourning. The student bodies also called for hoisting black flags at the respective residences of all.

The Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (ITLF) has also planned a commemorative event titled 'Separation Day' to be held in Churachandpur district headquarters.

Simultaneously, in the Imphal Valley, the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), representing Meitei civil society interests, has called for a public observance by halting all daily activities and attending the Manipur People's Convention scheduled in the state capital, Imphal.

Tensions in Manipur remain high as security forces have increased their presence across the state to prevent any untoward incidents during the anniversary.

Since the outbreak of violence in May 2023, over 260 people have been killed and thousands displaced in the ongoing conflict between the valley-based Meiteis and the hill-dwelling Kuki-Zomi tribes.

Earlier this year, the political situation dramatically changed when Chief Minister N. Biren Singh resigned amid mounting pressure.

The state has since been placed under President's Rule, and the Manipur Legislative Assembly remains under suspended animation, although its term is set to run until 2027.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
This is heartbreaking to see Manipur still suffering after 2 years. Bandhs only hurt common people more - students lose education, daily wage workers lose income. The government needs to find permanent solutions through dialogue, not just deploy more forces. 🇮🇳
P
Priya M.
As someone from Northeast India (Assam), I understand the pain but don't agree with 'Separation Day' events. We're all Indians first. The center should call all stakeholders for talks - this violence is making our beautiful region suffer unnecessarily.
A
Amit S.
Why is media only showing this news now? Manipur has been burning for 2 years! Both communities have legitimate concerns but violence isn't the answer. The President's Rule should focus on rehabilitation and confidence-building measures.
N
Neha T.
The black flag symbolism is powerful but worrying. Instead of mourning separately, both communities should find ways to remember the victims together. Manipur's diversity is its strength, not weakness. Hope peace prevails soon 🙏
S
Sanjay R.
Frankly speaking, our politicians have failed Manipur. First they played divide-and-rule politics, now they've abandoned the state to President's Rule. When will Delhi pay proper attention to Northeast? This affects India's security too, especially with Myanmar border situation.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50