ISLAMABAD: Manipur’s volatile crisis has deepened amid fresh allegations of violence and persecution against Kuki Christian communities, with rights groups warning that the state is facing a worsening humanitarian emergency.
Indian media cited a letter, written by The United Christian Forum to Manipur Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh, urging urgent action to restore peace and protect vulnerable communities.
The forum said continued violence has caused deaths, displacement, destruction of homes and a climate of fear across the state.
Manipur has been gripped by ethnic violence since May 2023, mainly between the Meitei community in the valley and the largely Christian Kuki-Zo tribes in the hills.
International media reported that the conflict has left around 260 people dead and displaced more than 60,000, while the latest flare-up followed an April 7 blast in Bishnupur that killed two children and triggered further unrest.
The crisis has also sparked alarming social media claims, including allegations that Indian security forces are using overwhelming force in Kuki Christian areas and that hundreds of Christians have been killed.
Fresh protests and shutdowns have further paralyzed life in Manipur. Reports said protesters recently clashed with police while attempting to march toward the chief minister’s residence, while fresh violence in Ukhrul district left at least three people dead.
Kuki Christian groups say they continue to face targeted violence, displacement and institutional neglect, while critics accuse both the state and central governments of failing to provide decisive leadership.
Despite federal rule and a change of chief minister, the BJP-led government has not been able to resolve the conflict or rebuild trust between communities, as per local and international media.
The silence of Prime Minister Modi, the chief minister of Manipur belonging to the BJP and suppression by state authorities have intensified anger among victims and rights groups.
The United Christian Forum has called for justice, rehabilitation of displaced families and immediate steps to prevent Manipur’s crisis from escalating further.
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