The Hindu-majority Meitei and Christian Kuki communities in India’s northeastern state of Manipur have clashed again, killing at least six people and destroying many villages. The year-long dispute over economic perks and quotas has exacerbated animosity between the two ethnic groups.
This latest escalation has destroyed homes and properties, displacing numerous families and increasing the Meitei-Kuki division. Government policies like job and land rights have historically divided both communities, resulting in frequent violence.
The majority Hindu Meitei people in Manipur’s valleys are seeking affirmative action advantages, which have traditionally been reserved for the Kuki and other hill tribes. The Kuki, a Christian minority, say Meitei demands threaten their rights and resources.
Government authorities are scrambling to restore peace, sending security forces to impacted districts to stop bloodshed. As emotions boil, the situation remains unstable, and there are growing concerns that the dispute may escalate.
Dialogue and permanent solutions to both populations’ ethnic and economic complaints are more vital than ever as the Manipur issue escalates.
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