Congress MP P Chidambaram has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Manipur of engaging in ethnic cleansing in the Imphal Valley. Chidambaram’s statement follows reports of the forced eviction of the last remaining tribal Kuki-Zo families from Imphal’s New Lambulane area. The ongoing conflict between the Meiteis and the Kukis has resulted in over 180 deaths and countless displacements.
Chidambaram took to his social media account to express his concern, claiming that ethnic cleansing has been completed in the Imphal Valley. He criticized the government’s handling of the situation and called for a more proactive approach to prevent further violence and displacement in the region. In response, security officials defended their actions, stating that they had received information about an imminent threat to the safety of the Kuki residents.
According to a report in The Hindu, authorities forcibly removed the last five Kuki-Zo families from Imphal on Friday night. Security officials explained that they were concerned for the safety of the Kuki residents, which prompted the eviction. Two of the evicted individuals confirmed that they were escorted by security personnel to government accommodations.
The state of Manipur has been plagued by violence for months due to ethnic clashes between the majority Meiteis and the tribal Kukis. The conflict arose from the Meiteis’ demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. As a result, thousands of people from both communities have been displaced, with Kukis fleeing to the tribal-dominated hills and Meiteis seeking refuge in the Imphal Valley. Sadly, this ongoing conflict has led to the loss of at least 180 lives in the state.
The situation clearly requires urgent attention and resolution in order to prevent further violence and displacement. It is imperative for the government to take a proactive approach and engage in peaceful dialogue with all parties involved. Only through a concerted effort can a sustainable solution be found to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents in Manipur, regardless of their ethnic background.
