Manipur Violence: According to police, two buses used to transport security forces personnel in Manipur's Kangpokpi district were destroyed by a mob on Wednesday. Fortunately, no one was hurt as a result of the incident.
The incident occurred on Tuesday( July 25 ) evening near Sapormeina, as the buses were on their way from Dimapur.
The fatal tragedy occurred when a group of people from one of the region's warring communities stopped buses having Manipur registration numbers at Sapormeina.
They insisted on checking the onboard passengers in order to identify members of the opposing community. Unfortunately, some of these people took matters into their own hands and set fire to the buses, worsening the already tense situation in the area.
This horrific occurrence is the result of ethnic strife that has ravaged the northeastern state for nearly three months. The continuous violence has claimed over 160 lives and injured hundreds more.
The violence began on May 3rd, following a 'Tribal Solidarity March' in the hill districts. The march was organised in response to the Meitei community's request for Scheduled Tribe (ST) designation.
Manipur's demographic composition is critical to understanding the underlying issues. The Meiteis, who make up roughly 53% of the state's population, largely live in the Imphal Valley.
Tribal communities, including Nagas and Kukis, make about 40% of the population and are primarily concentrated in the hill districts.
The Meitei community's pursuit for ST status has created animosity and concern among tribal groupings, resulting in heightened tensions and rare outbursts of violence.
The failure to resolve this sensitive topic has exacerbated existing differences within communities, resulting in terrible instances such as the recent bus burning.
To avoid future loss of life and property, authorities must address the core causes of this continuous conflict. Dialogue, understanding, and efforts to overcome community gaps are critical for achieving long-term peace in Manipur.
Furthermore, actions to eliminate socio economic imbalances and create equitable opportunities for all communities are required to foster state peace and unity.