Trouble Erupts in Manipur as Warring Communities Continue to Demonstrate Amidst Curfew

Imphal, Manipur - The fragile peace in strife-torn Manipur has been further disturbed with warring communities, majority Meiteis and tribal Kukis, demonstrating separately despite a curfew. The demonstrations, which took place on Tuesday, are seen as a stark reflection of the growing tensions in the state.

Rights activist Irom Sharmila has joined the chorus calling for Chief Minister N Biren Singh's removal, with many demanding his resignation and taking moral responsibility. In 2016, she ended her 16-year hunger strike against AFSPA, opposing its recent reimposition in five districts. She is now hopeful that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the state could help restore peace.

Government and BJP sources suggest that Biren's fate will be determined after Modi's return from a three-nation tour on November 21. Meanwhile, it has become clear that Biren is losing support among Meiteis, who he represents.

The CM's secretariat served notices to 11 MLAs, including ministers, for not attending the meeting called by Biren last evening. The NPP-led Meghalaya CM has withdrawn its support to the state government, citing concerns over the CM's leadership.

Tensions continue to simmer on the ground, with Meiteis and Kukis holding competing rallies amidst the indefinite curfew in Imphal East and Imphal West districts. The COCOMI, a joint body of Meitei civil rights organisations, has issued a 24-hour ultimatum demanding review of the resolution adopted by MLAs.

The Manipur Government has also taken fresh action, relieving senior SP Nectar Sanjenbam of his duties after a protester was killed in police firing during a rally in Jiribam. The state is bracing for more protests and tensions, with prominent Meitei organisations rejecting concrete steps against Kuki insurgents.

The situation remains fluid, with the BJP closely monitoring developments and the Prime Minister's imminent visit to the state offering a glimmer of hope for peace restoration.