Three years after the ethnic violence of May 2023 started, thousands of displaced families in Manipur are still living in tarpaulin shelters in districts such as Churachandpur, waiting to return home. With the President's Rule lifted and a new government in place, hopes of reconciliation have risen, as per Outlook.
The Manipur government is led by Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, a Meitei leader. He has appointed two deputy chief ministers, Nemcha Kipgen from the Kuki-Zomi community and Losii Dikho from the Naga community, in an attempt to balance ethnic representation.
Political stability amidst lingering tensions
According to Outlook, the restoration of an elected government is being seen as a political reset after months of instability. However, clashes recently broke out in Ukhrul between Tangkhul Nagas and Kuki-Zomis, leading to the suspension of internet services.
The violence that began in May 2023 had left deep divisions between the valley-based Meiteis and hill communities. Though large-scale clashes have reduced, many families remain in relief camps.
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The Kuki-Zomi community continues to demand Union Territory status for the hill districts. At the same time, Naga groups have longstanding aspirations linked to a greater Nagalim.
Challenges for the new government
The government now faces the challenge of restoring administration and rebuilding trust. But ministers have still not been allocated portfolios, which has raised concerns about delays in governance.
Residents in districts like Senapati recall past ethnic clashes, including the 1992 violence between Kukis and Nagas over land. Analysts say unresolved land rights and ownership issues remain central to the conflict, as per Outlook.
Over the past year, steps such as suspension of operations agreements with Kuki militant groups and efforts to disarm civilians have been taken. But rehabilitation of displaced families and meaningful dialogue between communities are still ongoing tasks.
As Manipur prepares for the 2027 Assembly elections, the success of the new government will depend on how effectively it converts political restoration into lasting reconciliation.
