Violence broke out in Manipur on Wednesday after a rally by the All Tribal Students Union Manipur (ATSUM) organised a Tribal Solidarity March in 10 hill districts of the state.
Protests are taking place due to a high court direction to the state government on inclusion of Meiteis under the Scheduled Tribes (ST) category. Meiteis comprise about 53 per cent of the state’s population but occupy around 10 per cent of the land area. They will also be able to purchase land in hill areas if included in the ST list. The hill areas are inhabited by tribals.
The conflict began when tribal groups in Manipur called for a 12-hour total shutdown to protest against the state government’s survey on protected forests and eviction from villages. The shutdown call came on the day of CM Biren Singh’s visit to Churachandpur
Tribal bodies are upset due to the demolition of churches in Imphal by the Biren Singh government during an eviction drive in April. The most prominent hill tribes of Manipur—Kukis and Nagas—are Christians.
The state government banned internet services for five days and also imposed Section 144 in various districts due to the violence. State home department has also set up relief camps for people who have been stranded
The Indian Army said situation in Moreh and Kangpokpi areas of Manipur was brought under control and remained stable. Efforts are being carried out to bring about normalcy in Imphal and Churachandpur, Indian Army said.
The Nagaland government has opened a helpline for citizens of the state for evacuation from Manipur. Anyone who needs assistance can contact here:
- State Police Control Room (Phone): 0370-2242511
- State Police Control Room (Fax):
0370-2242512
- State Police Control Room (WhatsApp): 8794833041
Meghalaya government has also activated its helpline for students staying in Manipur as well as for parents in case of emergencies. Those who need any help can contact 1800-345-3644. Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma called an urgent meeting with top officials to ensure the safety of students
Pema Khandu-led Arunachal Pradesh government has set up a coordination committee for safe evacuation of students stranded in Manipur. Arunachal Pradesh students stranded in Manipur can contact officials concerned at 7086026788 and 7630090058.
Tripura residents stuck in Manipur or whose loved ones are stuck in the crisis can contact the Centre's Emergency Response Support System at 112 and the State Emergency Operation Centre at 1070/0381-2416045/2416241. They can also contact the authorities concerned via WhatsApp on 8787676210.