How Manipur unrest poses a threat to the entire Northeast

Experts warn that the ongoing ethnic conflict between the Meiteis and Kukis in Manipur poses a serious threat of spreading to other parts of Northeast India unless urgent actions are taken by the Centre and the state authorities to address the issue.

As a result of the violence in Manipur, Mizoram is witnessing an exodus of Meiteis who have been leaving the state following an "advisory" issued by an ex-militants' association. The advisory urged caution and safety measures for Meiteis in the wake of the escalating tensions.

Over a thousand Meiteis have already arrived in the Barak Valley of southern Assam since Saturday. Responding to the situation, the Assam government has established relief camps in Cachar district, which are being jointly managed by the district administration and local residents, according to Superintendent of Police Numal Mahatta.


In response to the advisory from the "ex-militants' association", the All Assam Manipuri Students' Union (Aamsu) issued a counter-advisory to the Mizos living in Barak Valley districts. Aamsu urged them to vacate the area for their own safety, citing the escalating anger among the Meiteis of Assam due to the situation in Mizoram.

Adding to the complexity of the situation, Chief Minister Zoramthanga expressed his support for the idea of 'Greater Mizoram,' which would include areas inhabited by the ethnic Zo people (Kuki-Zomi) in Manipur. He emphasized the need for a peaceful and constitutional approach, suggesting that any move for inclusion should be in accordance with Article 3 of the Constitution, rather than resorting to coercion.

The demand for a separate administration by the Kuki-Zomi organizations in Manipur gained momentum following the outbreak of ethnic violence on May 3. Interestingly, this demand has found backing from some Mizo groups, particularly Mizoram's ruling party MNF, which had previously led an armed separatist movement advocating for the creation of 'Greater Mizoram' until a peace accord was signed in 1986.