Authorities in Manipur have enforced a curfew in the state capital, Imphal, and its surrounding valley following violent protests sparked by a recent surge in ethnic violence.
The curfew, which was announced earlier today, aims to curb further unrest after clashes between the predominantly Hindu Meitei majority and the primarily Christian Kuki community.
The latest violence, which erupted last week, resulted in at least 11 fatalities. This resurgence of hostilities follows months of relative calm but has reignited long-standing tensions between the two communities, leading to a series of violent confrontations.
The unrest intensified on Monday when student-led demonstrations turned violent. According to police reports, protesters clashed with security forces guarding the state governor’s residence, throwing stones and plastic bottles. In another district, demonstrators reportedly seized weapons from police officers and opened fire, injuring at least two officers.
A government notice has declared a “total curfew” effective immediately until further notice. The move comes as protesters demand stronger action against insurgents using improvised weapons and drones, which police have described as a significant escalation in violence.
The ethnic conflict in Manipur, fueled by competition over land and public jobs, has been exacerbated by local political dynamics. Critics accuse local leaders of inflaming ethnic divisions for political advantage. The state, governed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party, has seen persistent unrest despite efforts to stabilize the region.
The curfew, which was announced earlier today, aims to curb further unrest after clashes between the predominantly Hindu Meitei majority and the primarily Christian Kuki community.
The latest violence, which erupted last week, resulted in at least 11 fatalities. This resurgence of hostilities follows months of relative calm but has reignited long-standing tensions between the two communities, leading to a series of violent confrontations.
The unrest intensified on Monday when student-led demonstrations turned violent. According to police reports, protesters clashed with security forces guarding the state governor’s residence, throwing stones and plastic bottles. In another district, demonstrators reportedly seized weapons from police officers and opened fire, injuring at least two officers.
A government notice has declared a “total curfew” effective immediately until further notice. The move comes as protesters demand stronger action against insurgents using improvised weapons and drones, which police have described as a significant escalation in violence.
The ethnic conflict in Manipur, fueled by competition over land and public jobs, has been exacerbated by local political dynamics. Critics accuse local leaders of inflaming ethnic divisions for political advantage. The state, governed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party, has seen persistent unrest despite efforts to stabilize the region.
