Manipur’s Chief Minister, N Biren Singh, shared that 212 individuals from the Meitei community, who had fled Myanmar due to ethnic conflict about three months ago, have now returned. Singh conveyed this news through a post on platform X, expressing his relief and gratitude for their safe return to Indian soil. He commended the Indian Army for their committed efforts in repatriating these citizens and extended sincere thanks to GOC Eastern Command, Lt Gen. RP Kalita, GOC 3 Corp, Lt Gen. HS Sahi, and CO of 5 AR, Col. Rahul Jain for their steadfast service.
Meiteis Return
As per a Hindustan Times report, these citizens were brought back to Moreh, a commercial town situated 110 km south of Imphal. Upon their arrival, they were welcomed at the border gates by teams from the Indian Army, led by commandants of the Assam Rifles and Gorkha Rifles. The report highlights that individuals from Moreh’s ward number 4, Premnagar, had fled to Myanmar after crossing the India-Myanmar international border on May 3. They sought refuge in the Tamua area of Sagaing division.
Violence erupted in Manipur following a protest rally by the All Tribal Students Union of Manipur (ATSUM) on May 3. The rally was against the proposed inclusion of Meitei community members in the list of Scheduled Tribes (STs). Since the onset of violence in the northeastern state, over 150 people have lost their lives, and nearly 50,000 individuals have been displaced.
Meitis – Kukis conflict
Tensions escalated as Kukis opposed Meiteis’ bid for tribal status, fearing it would increase Meitei authority and affect land rights in Kuki areas. Additionally, Kukis believe the Meitei government’s anti-drug campaign masks efforts to displace their communities. Rising land pressure due to population growth and unemployment, along with cross-border migration, further strain the situation.
For decades, clashes between Meitei, Kuki, and Naga militias have centered around contested homeland claims and religious disparities, often leading to confrontations with India’s security forces. The current escalation primarily involves the Meitei and Kuki, distinct from past conflicts that often had religious underpinnings. Dhiren A Sadokpam, the editor of The Frontier Manipur, emphasizes that this particular conflict is exclusively driven by ethnic factors rather than religious ones.
About the Community
The Meitei community has historical connections to Manipur, Myanmar, and nearby regions. While the majority adhere to Hinduism, a portion practices the Sanamahi faith. Meanwhile, the Kukis, largely Christian, are dispersed throughout northeastern India, with many in Manipur having ancestral ties to Myanmar as well.In terms of residence, Meiteis predominantly inhabit the Imphal valley, whereas Kukis reside in the surrounding hills and even farther afield.
