Clashes between Meitei’s and Kuki’s in Mizoram: Government Plans to Airlift Meitei Residents for Safety
In recent times, there have been violent clashes between two communities, the Meitei and the Kuki, in the state of Mizoram, India. The tensions escalated after a distressing incident on May 4, where a video of two tribal Kuki-Zo women being assaulted and disrobed surfaced, causing widespread outrage and anger among the Mizo youths.
To ensure the safety of the Meitei people residing in Mizoram, the Manipur government has decided to airlift them from Aizawl, the capital city of Mizoram. The government intends to carry out this evacuation operation using customized ATR planes that fly between Aizawl-Imphal and Aizawl-Silchar. However, the exact date for the airlifting has not been confirmed yet. There are said to be a few thousand Meitei’s living in Mizoram right now, mostly from Manipur and south Assam.
The situation became more tense when the Mizoram-based organization of former militants called the MNF Returnees Association (PAMRA) urged the Meitei’s to return to their home state of Manipur for their own safety. Fearing possible retaliation, the Mizoram Police stepped up security arrangements at various educational institutions in Aizawl, including Vety College, Selesih; Mizoram University, Tanhril; RIPANS, Zemabawk; and ZMC, Falkawn, to ensure the safety of Meitei’s residing in the city.
In reaction to the rising tensions, the Mizo Student’s Union (MSU) announced plans to conduct a Meitei census at several Mizoram educational institutions. This move seems to be an effort to address the situation and promote understanding among the communities.
The ongoing violence traces back to a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ held on May 3, where protests erupted in the hill districts against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The Meitei’s, constituting about 53 percent of Manipur’s population, primarily reside in the Imphal Valley, while the Nagas and Kukis, accounting for approximately 40 percent, mostly live in the hill districts.
The Mizoram government addressed the deteriorating situation by assuring the Meitei people of their safety and security and advising them not to listen to rumours. The State home commissioner and secretary, H. Lalengmawia, held a meeting with Meitei community leaders to reinforce this message.
As the situation remains sensitive, it is crucial for all parties involved to exercise restraint and work towards peaceful coexistence. The safety and well-being of the residents, regardless of their community or background, should be the top priority. Dialogue, understanding, and empathy are vital to bridge the gaps between the Meitei’s, Kukis, and other communities residing in the region.
However, the violent clashes between the Meitei’s and Kukis in Mizoram have raised serious concerns for the safety of the Meitei residents. The government’s plan to airlift them from Aizawl shows the gravity of the situation. To ensure lasting peace, all parties involved must prioritize dialogue, understanding, and empathy. Addressing the underlying causes of the tension and promoting coexistence among communities is essential. The Mizoram government’s efforts to reassure the Meitei community and increase security measures are steps in the right direction. Ultimately, sustainable peace can only be achieved through cooperation and respect among all residents in the region.