Within the intricate weave of Manipur's socio-political fabric, the ongoing peace negotiations present a glimmer of hope. These efforts primarily revolve around the accountability of insurgent groups within the state, even as it faces the complications of ethnic conflicts. This recounting initiative has assumed greater significance due to the prevailing ethnic tensions in Manipur, particularly between the Meitei community of the valley and the hill-dwelling Kuki tribe, according to informed individuals.

More than two dozen Kuki insurgent groups have entered into a 'Suspension of Operations' (SoO) agreement. This pact essentially mandates these groups to restrict their activities to government-designated camps, while their armaments are to be stored securely under regular surveillance. Recently, surprise inspections of these SoO camps have been undertaken by the military to ensure the terms of the agreement are being followed.

Despite the recent redirection of some troops towards law enforcement due to disturbances, the accounting process for SoO-linked insurgents and their weapons has been intensified, according to a senior officer involved in the process. Amidst this, apprehensions remain about a 'silent march' held by Kuki-majority residents in the Churachandpur district. This is a region that saw an outbreak of violence following a similar rally on May 3.

The march, paying homage to Kukis who lost their lives in ethnic clashes with the Meiteis, displayed some alarming visuals. Armed men with faces painted in the colours of the Zomi Revolutionary Army (ZRA), an insurgent faction, led the procession. Many participants wore camouflage combat uniforms and tactical vests, drawing attention to the potential of such gatherings to destabilise the already precarious situation. This is especially pertinent considering the government's efforts to restore normalcy to Manipur in line with the SoO agreement.

Despite the deployment of around 36,000 security personnel and 40 IPS officers across Manipur's districts, the protests have been relentless. A senior officer told NDTV that many groups were exhibiting their strength on the streets, which frequently resulted in law and order issues.

Amid the army's area-domination operations in Manipur, the Home Ministry has also been proactively trying to stabilise the state. Officials and paramilitary forces under the ministry have successfully mitigated multiple potential crises, as per people acquainted with the matter.

However, a significant hurdle lies in the sheer number of groups protesting, each carrying their own set of demands. Field officials have expressed the challenge in negotiating with them due to the lack of clear leadership within these groups. In the absence of clearly defined negotiating points, security forces are turning their focus more towards humanitarian operations and area-domination patrols.

The state of Manipur, particularly in areas covered by 19 city-centric police stations housing the majority of the population, has seen the removal of the controversial Armed Forces (Special) Powers Act (AFSPA). This shift in regulation has redirected the forces' focus towards humanitarian efforts, with the state slowly showing signs of returning to normalcy.

In spite of this gradual improvement, however, the challenge remains. A significant portion of the 5,000 various types of looted weapons have yet to be returned, a pressing concern for the administration. The roots of Manipur's conflict lie deep in its history and have fuelled the recent eruption of violence.

Political parties, in a recent all-party meeting, suggested solutions to the ongoing issues. Home Minister Amit Shah listened and reassured them that the government would take every possible step to resolve the Manipur problem, according to a senior Home Ministry official.

Manipur continues to seethe with tension following the eruption of ethnic violence between the Meiteis, who demand inclusion under the Scheduled Tribes (ST) category, and the Kukis. This has led to protests from the Kuki community, spiralling into violence that has so far claimed over 100 lives. The two communities persist in accusing each other of atrocities, and Internet services have been cut off in the state since May 3.

12 militants released after mob stops security forces in Manipur

Amid mounting local pressure, Manipur security forces release 12 apprehended militants, emphasizing the humane face of the Indian Army

In an unexpected turn of events in Manipur's Imphal East district, security forces were forced to release a dozen militants affiliated with the Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL) outfit, who had been apprehended earlier on Saturday. A large gathering of locals, primarily women, successfully forestalled the security forces' actions, culminating in the release of the captured militants into the custody of local leaders. This incident serves as a testament to the challenging law and order situation in the region, an official reported.

According to a defence spokesperson, acting upon specific intelligence, a joint operation was launched by the Army and Assam Rifles in Itham village, Imphal East district, post-midnight on Saturday. The area was cordoned off prior to the commencement of the search operation, a measure taken to minimize disruption to the local community.

The operation resulted in the apprehension of 12 KYKL militants, complete with seizure of arms, ammunition, and additional war paraphernalia. Among the arrested militants was the self-styled Lt. Col. Moirangthem Tamba, also known as Uttam, who is believed to have masterminded an ambush on the 6th battalion of the DOGRA regiment in 2015.

However, the successful operation was met with a significant hurdle when a sizable mob of approximately 1500 people, led by local female leaders, swiftly surrounded the area. Despite numerous attempts by the security forces to persuade the mob to disperse, their efforts were stonewalled, and the operation was abruptly stalled.

Given the tense situation, the officer in charge had to make a difficult yet necessary decision. Weighing the potential consequences of using force against the irate mob, including potential civilian casualties, the decision was made to release all 12 KYKL militants into the custody of local leaders, prioritizing the safety and well-being of the crowd.

The troops of the Army and Assam Rifles subsequently lifted the cordon and vacated the area, but not without securing the confiscated weapons and ammunition. This decision, made in the heat of the moment, stands as a testament to the operational commander's maturity and the Indian Army's commitment to a humanitarian approach.

The spokesperson praised this act as a demonstration of the Indian Army's humane face, highlighting their unwavering efforts to prevent collateral damage and to avoid any further escalation of the already volatile situation in Manipur.Through a defence statement, the Indian Army appealed to the people of Manipur to cooperate with the security forces in their endeavour to uphold law and order, to foster peace and stability within the region. This incident showcases the deeply rooted challenges that security forces face in the context of ethnic, social, and political tensions, and the importance of local community engagement in conflict resolution.

Reason for the Kuki-Meitei clash

The Kuki-Meitei clash in Manipur has been a topic of intense debate and concern. The conflict, rooted in ethnic differences and territorial disputes, has escalated over the years, leading to a significant shift in the demography of Manipur. This article aims to shed light on the issue from the perspective of the Meitei community, emphasizing the importance of preserving the original natives of Manipur and discussing the court orders related to the conflict.

The Meitei community, the original inhabitants of Manipur, have been witnessing a significant change in the demographic composition of their homeland. The Kuki community, originally from Myanmar, has been migrating to Manipur in large numbers, leading to a shift in the demographic balance. This migration has been a cause of concern for the Meitei community, who fear the loss of their cultural and ethnic identity.

The Meitei community has been vocal about their concerns, asserting that the influx of Kukis is altering the demographic balance of Manipur. They argue that the preservation of the original natives of Manipur is crucial for maintaining the cultural and historical integrity of the state. The Meitei community believes that the unchecked migration of Kukis into Manipur could lead to the marginalization of the original inhabitants, threatening their cultural heritage and way of life.

The conflict between the Kuki and Meitei communities has not only led to social unrest but has also resulted in legal battles. Several court orders have been issued in relation to the conflict, aiming to maintain peace and order in the region. The court has been instrumental in mediating the conflict, issuing directives to ensure the safety and rights of both communities.

One of the most significant court orders was the directive to submit a recommendation on the inclusion of the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribe list. This order was a trigger for the violence between the communities, as it was seen as a move to protect the rights and identity of the Meitei community. However, it also led to a backlash from the Kuki community, who viewed it as a threat to their own rights and status.

In conclusion, the Kuki-Meitei clash in Manipur is a complex issue that involves ethnic tensions, demographic changes, and legal battles. While it is crucial to address the concerns of the Kuki community, it is equally important to protect the rights and identity of the Meitei community, the original natives of Manipur. The resolution of this conflict requires a balanced approach that respects the rights and identities of both communities, while also preserving the cultural and historical integrity of Manipur.