Kangpokpi violence erupted again on Friday, bringing fresh turmoil to the tribal-dominated hilly district in Manipur. The tense situation unfolded when a group of people marched towards the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Kangpokpi and attacked the administrative headquarters. A police official sustained injuries in the clash, exacerbating the region’s fragile state.
The Kuki-dominated Kangpokpi district has been a hotspot for unrest, with protests and confrontations reported frequently. Just three days prior, women from the Kuki community staged a massive protest in the Saibol area. They obstructed joint operations by the Border Security Force (BSF), Indian Army, and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), following a security operation on December 29 that dismantled bunkers and cleared the area of militants.
Manipur’s Ongoing Struggles
The recent Kangpokpi Violence is another chapter in the ongoing ethnic tensions between the majority Meitei community and the Kuki tribes. Since May 3, 2023, the state has seen violent clashes over quotas and economic benefits, leading to over 200 deaths and thousands displaced.
Chief Minister N. Biren Singh recently addressed the situation, appealing for peace and reconciliation. At a press conference in Imphal, Singh apologized to the people for the prolonged violence and urged all communities to “forgive and forget” the past. However, opposition parties have criticized his administration for its handling of the crisis.
The unrest in Kangpokpi reflects a broader struggle in Manipur, where security operations have often been met with resistance from local communities. The presence of joint forces in the region highlights the severity of the situation. Despite their efforts, the state remains volatile, with sporadic violence threatening the fragile peace.
As Manipur grapples with its challenges, the events in Kangpokpi underscore the urgent need for effective dialogue and resolution to restore normalcy in the state.