“Black Day” observed across Manipur to mark the first anniversary of ethnic violence

Imphal:: To mark one year of ethnic conflict in Manipur,  Meitei, and Kuki-Zo civil society organizations have organized several events paying floral tributes to the photos of the departed souls amidst bringing the socio-economic condition of this strife state into an apparent downturn on Friday, (May 3, 2024).

Several outfits including COCOMI, AMUCO, FOCS, CoTU, and ITLF observed the day as “Black Day,” and "Day of Remembrance" hoisting black flags at different locations across the state.

In response to the reiterated appeals by these outfits, all shops, business establishments, banks, and educational institutes came to a close on Friday.

Movements of inter-state and inter-district vehicles were off the road. Manipur has been cut off from the rest of the country by road on Friday.

However, normal flight services and public emergency services including water supply, and medical and religious ceremonies continued as usual. Imphal city wore a deserted look.

Manipur has been on the boil after clashes broke out between two communities - the Kukis and Meiteis in the state since May 3, 2023 and subsequent large-scale violence.

Nearly 230 people lost their lives and over 60, 000 people were displaced following the clashes.

The living conditions of the inmates taking shelter at different relief camps turned from bad to worse, complaints the inmates. Several rounds of peace talks between the groups have broken down.

The violence erupted after a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ was organized in the hill districts to protest against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.

Resentment between members of the Kuki tribe — who live in the hills, get economic benefits and quotas in government jobs and education — and the Meiteis - who control the more prosperous lowlands - spilt over as they clashed to date.

Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur’s population and live mostly in the Imphal Valley, while tribals, which include Nagas and Kukis, constitute 40 per cent and reside mainly in the hill districts.

The centre has asked the state’s Chief Minister to “work harder” and deployed additional security forces but it is concerned that the warring factions may be getting support from Myanmar.

Several rounds of peace talks between the groups have broken down. A full 365 days have passed by; yet the Prime Minister has not shown the inclination or found the time to visit Manipur.