IMPHAL: A surge of violence in Manipur’s Jiribam district has led to the displacement of approximately 2,000 individuals, triggering heightened security measures in the neighbouring Cachar district of Assam.
Reportedly, around 1,000 displaced individuals have sought refuge in Cachar, with numbers expected to rise steadily.
Among the displaced are Kukis, Hmars, and Meiteis, representing diverse segments of the population.
Concerned about the potential spread of unrest, local authorities convened a meeting with various community organisations in Lakhipur, situated adjacent to Jiribam, to underscore the importance of preventing the escalation of violence.
Considering the diverse demographic composition of the area, authorities are focusing on the need to safeguard Assam from the repercussions of the situation in Manipur.
Cachar Superintendent of Police Numal Mahatta confirmed enhanced security measures in Lakhipur sub-division, with special commandos deployed to maintain order.
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Meanwhile, in Jiribam district, relief efforts are underway, with six relief camps established to accommodate 918 displaced individuals, primarily Meiteis.
Police and Assam Rifles facilitated their relocation following the destruction of several homes on June 8.
The recent violence in Jiribam intensified over the weekend, with reports indicating attacks on a police outpost, a forest beat office, and a forest range office.
Residential areas bore the brunt of the unrest, with multiple houses set ablaze across several villages.
In response, local authorities imposed an indefinite curfew in Jiribam and the neighbouring Tamenglong district to quell the unrest and restore calm to the region.
Amidst the escalating violence in Jiribam, a blame game has erupted between Meitei organisations and Kuki-Zo bodies, with each accusing the other for the recent surge in unrest.
The Indigenous Tribes Advocacy Committee released a statement attributing the arson in the village of Lamdai Khunou to retaliatory actions following “unprovoked attacks and burning of numerous Hmar-Kuki-Zomi tribal houses.”
On the other hand, the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity, representing the Meitei community, suggested that the violence appeared to be a calculated move by immigrant Kuki groups.
Allegedly, they aimed to advance their demand for a separate administration through terror tactics.
