Churachandpur, Manipur, Escalating Violence and Urgent Calls for Closure: A Cry for Peace and Stability

0
Churachandpur-Ukhrul-Times

Image Source: Ukhrul Times

In reaction to the growing violence that began on August 29 and has already claimed four lives, the Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) has urgently called for a total closure in Churachandpur, Manipur. To address the current disturbance in the area, the shutdown will take place immediately. Importantly, this stoppage will not affect vital services such as water and medicine delivery.

Following the unfortunate deaths of two more people who sustained injuries during the recent conflicts, which are centered in a region straddling the Kuki-majority Churachandpur and Meitei-majority Bishnupur districts, the ITLF, representing the Kuki-Zo community, issued this demand. This request for a shutdown underscores the seriousness of the situation and the pressing need for action to restore peace and stability to the affected area.

The ongoing violence in Manipur has claimed two more lives in the last two hours, with both victims suffering injuries from explosive devices. One of the victims has been identified as the well-known local artist LS Mangboi, who gained fame with his song “I gam hilo ham,” which translates to “Isn’t this our land?” This song had evolved into a powerful means of expressing emotions during the prolonged struggle. The other victim, Richard Hemkholin Guite, reportedly served as a volunteer for the village defense before tragically succumbing to his wounds in Churachandpur district.

Four people have now died as a result of the continuous shooting incidents that began on August 29, including these most recent deaths. Jangminlun Gangte and Laibungjam Inao lost their lives in Churachandpur and Bishnupur, respectively, on that fateful day. Since Wednesday night, there have been fewer intense gunfights, but security forces have still been conducting searches in several districts, including Kangpokpi, Thoubal, Churachandpur, and Imphal-West. Weapons, ammunition, and explosives have been discovered as a result of these operations.

Over 160 people have died in the area since the onset of ethnic violence in Manipur on May 3, triggered by a “Tribal Solidarity March” in opposition to the dominant Meitei community’s desire for Scheduled Tribe designation. The ongoing conflict has inflicted severe damage on the affected areas, emphasizing the urgent need for a solution to restore peace and stability in the region.

Finally, with four fatalities reported since hostilities began on August 29 in Manipur, the state finds itself trapped in a dreadful cycle of bloodshed. The Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) has urgently called for a total closure in Churachandpur, highlighting the gravity of the situation and the absolute necessity for swift action to reinstate peace and stability. This abrupt shutdown, which excludes essential services like water and medical care, is a direct response to the worsening crisis. The tragic consequences of the ongoing confrontations are underscored by the recent deaths of two individuals from explosive injuries, including the well-known local artist LS Mangboi. Over 160 people have lost their lives in this ongoing conflict, which erupted on May 3 in response to the Meitei community’s request for recognition as a Scheduled Tribe, underscoring the urgent need for a solution to restore peace and security to the troubled area.

-Hrishika Tripathi

Team Profile

Hrishika Tripathi
Hrishika TripathiContent Writer

Leave a Reply