New Delhi: Several student organizations representing indigenous communities in Manipur on Sunday urged the Center and constitutional authorities to intervene urgently, as it marked three years since the outbreak of ethnic violence in the state.
In a joint statement, groups including the Gangti Students Organisation, Hmar Students Association, Zo Sangnaobang Baulbi and Kuki Students Organisation, said they had submitted a memorandum to the National Human Rights Commission, the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes, the Home Ministry and the Prime Minister’s Office, seeking immediate action on the ongoing crisis.
The organizations demanded a rapid political dialogue within the framework of the suspension of operations involving the Center and rebel groups, including the Kuki National Organization and the United People’s Front, and called for a “durable political solution”, including consideration of a separate administrative arrangement.
Marking the third anniversary of the violence that began on May 3, 2023, the organizations claimed that members of indigenous communities in the hills continue to face a “serious humanitarian crisis,” citing widespread displacement, destruction of villages and loss of life.
They claimed that more than 200 villages were burned, more than 250 places of worship were destroyed, and hundreds of civilians were killed during the violence.
The groups also alleged incidents of sexual violence against women, and said thousands of families remained displaced, living in relief camps without adequate access to basic services.
“This is not just a law and order issue, but a humanitarian crisis exacerbated by delayed justice and systemic neglect,” the statement said.
They also sought an impartial investigation into the role of former Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, alleging failure to act and demanding accountability at the highest levels.
Among other demands, the groups called for time-bound investigations into incidents of violence, speedy prosecution of perpetrators, and immediate relief and compensation for victims and internally displaced persons.
They also raised concerns about the reported looting of weapons from government armories during the unrest and demanded a high-level investigation into the vulnerability, the recovery of weapons and measures to prevent further misuse.
The organizations stressed that they seek justice through democratic and constitutional means, and urged the Center to treat the situation as an urgent matter at the national level and take concrete steps towards rehabilitation, accountability and a lasting solution.
“Restoring peace requires immediate humanitarian intervention and sincere political commitment to address the root causes of the conflict,” the statement said.
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