Manipur : Victim of Distortion

 Echoes of the Past: Unearthing the Deep-rooted Tensions Behind Manipur's Violence......

Explore the deep-rooted ethnic tensions in Manipur, arising from historical grievances and identity politics. Discover the path to lasting peace and reconciliation.

Burning Situation

Central Govt found itself clutching at straws when the horrendous  video became viral related to 2 KUKI WOMEN being paraded , dragged and brutally harassed in a broad daylight by robbing their cloths . it happened on 19th July 2023. It put eggs on every Indian . 

The Ice Broken 

Supreme Court took sue motto notice and warned , " Take action or else we will...." 

Even Prime Minister took a call admitted that the incident had smeared India's image world wide . Two top most institutions took notice of Manipur violence was enough to make it qualified for a national discourse . Even before these institutions European Union took an objection the persecution of its Christian brethren  in the hills of Manipur . It issued a resolution citing : "take all necessary measures and make the utmost effort to promptly halt the ongoing ethnic and religious violence, to protect all religious minorities, such as Manipur’s Christian community, and to pre-empt any further escalation  . " 

India reacted strongly and said "This is an internal matter and such an objection is a reflection of colonial mindset . "  But the incident went viral on 19th July shook the nation to the core .

Everybody suddenly became an expert of who is the real monster in Manipur violence . With no surprise , every other news channel prominently showed violence infested incidents involving  both the ethnic groups KUKIS and MEITEIS , but typically showing Meiteis as oppressors and Kukis as oppressed . 

Like it always happened in the case of any Tragedy we like to grasp things in simple terms and with 

nuances . So we found culprits in the form of Meiteis . The whole opposition succeeded in portraying  one participant as the main accused.

Horrendous Recurrence 

Soon after the incident went viral , some of the other states witnessed the same incidents in which the woman had to face the same level of cruelty  as the criminal robbed them off their cloths and paraded them naked . It seemed like the viral video had made a benchmark of cruelty for mobs of inhuman crimes .

Questions Raised  

As the video that went viral on 19th July , raised many legitimate  but equally embarrassing  questions ......

 

1) The incident of which video went viral  , actually took place on 4th  of May 2023.  So why was it being circulated just before the Monsoon Session . Was it a ploy of the Opposition parties to sabotage the smooth functioning of the Parliament ? 

2) Similar instances failed to get equal amount of  attention by the institutions like Supreme Court raising concerns about their credibility . Is the maintenance and protection of dignity of every citizen not equally important ? 

Selective outrage left the netizens disenchanted as efforts were made to belittle instances of similar gravity in West Bengal , Rajasthan , Chhattisgarh etc .

3)  Over simplification by vilifying Meiteis has snatched away the opportunity to have a meaningful discussion which could actually lead to a peaceful solution and long lasting peace in the region . 

North East region of the nation has been neglected in public discourse for a very long time . Now it is being discussed but  for all the wrong reasons and it  is giving a very misleading signal about its character . For example if we talk about Manipur , it seems that both the prominent communities never lived peacefully and has been enemies for eternity . But is it really true ? If not ,then how did the state went down the rabbit hole ? 

It is a question that can lead to a possible solution hence requires detailed explanation ......

Diving deeper into the reasons behind the

 violence in Manipur : 

1) Historical Reasons 

Colonial Bites and Scars 

Manipur has had a long history of being an epicenter of cultural assimilation .

Let's dive a little more ......

 Manipur, a captivating state in Northeast India, brimming with a diverse and fascinating culture. Known as the "centre of cultural assimilation," Manipur has embraced various influences from neighboring regions and countries throughout its history. Here are some intriguing aspects of Manipur's culture that highlight this unique amalgamation:

A. Language:

 Manipuri language, derived from the Tibeto-Burman family, is a fascinating blend of influences. It boasts a collection of words borrowed from Sanskrit, Bengali, Hindi, and English, adding flavor and depth to its linguistic landscape. The Manipuri script, Meitei Mayek, once replaced by Bengali during colonial times, has experienced a revival in recent years.

B. Religion:

 Manipur's religious landscape is a beautiful mosaic of beliefs. The majority of the population follows Sanamahism, a form of Hinduism venerating the primordial deity Sanamahi. Alongside this, there are adherents of Vaishnavism, Shaivism, Buddhism, Islam, and other faiths. Temples, shrines, monasteries, churches, and mosques dot the state, showcasing the diverse tapestry of religious practices.

C. Art and Literature:

 Manipur boasts a rich tradition of art and literature, representing a colorful blend of styles and genres. From oral folk tales and legends to written epics, poetry, drama, and novels, the literary heritage here is vast. Renowned literary figures like Hijam Anganghal, Rajkumar Shitaljit Singh, M.K. Binodini Devi, and Birendra Kumar Bhattacharya have contributed to its cultural tapestry. The state also embraces performing arts, including dance, music, theatre, and puppetry, with Manipuri dance, Thang-ta, Lai Haraoba, and Ras Lila being among the prominent forms¹².

D. Crafts and Cuisine:

 Manipur's crafts showcase the creativity and skill of its people, utilizing local resources to create intricate pottery, basketry, weaving, wood carving, cane work, and jewelry. The state's cuisine is a delightful array of flavors, featuring rice, fish, vegetables, herbs, and spices in dishes like Eromba, Singju, Kangsoi, Chak-hao kheer, and Ngari¹².

These aspects highlight how Manipur's culture has evolved over time, absorbing and blending diverse influences into its vibrant identity. With pride and creativity, Manipur stands as a living testament to the richness of cultural assimilation. Exploring its diverse heritage is an enriching experience that unveils the beauty of India's Northeastern gem.

But this harmony had a nightmare in the form of colonialism . The British won the war of Plassey in 1757  and the war of Baxar  in 1764 which led to the expansion of colonial rule in tribal areas . It triggered many changes in the lives of the people in these regions and Manipur was no exception . The changes that it brought are following : 

A) introduction of Christianity : 

 Missionary activities were promoted to cement colonial interests in the region . It led to division between monotheism and polytheism .  Unlike Islam its entry was not organic throughout history its propagation has had foreign hands . Even today foreign funding backs such conversion oriented missionary activities .

The sad part is that even after independence not steps wee taken to preserve the sanctity of vulnerable tribes from such divisive activities .

One question come to the mind that have the Kukis and Meiteis been fighting throughout the History ?

According   have a long history of living together and cooperating in Manipur since ancient times. The Meiteis, who are the dominant ethnic group in the valley, have a diverse culture, including their own script, religion, literature, and arts. Meanwhile, the Kukis, spread across the hills of Manipur and neighboring states, have their own distinct customs, traditions, and languages. 

Some historians suggest that the Meitei kings and Kuki chiefs maintained friendly relations. There were instances where the Meitei kings granted land and titles to the Kuki chiefs as a sign of loyalty and service. The Kukis also played a role as a buffer between the Meiteis and the Nagas, who sometimes raided the valley for resources. They were also involved in trade and commerce with the Meiteis and other communities in the region. 

There are also examples of cultural exchange and integration between the Meiteis and Kukis. Some Kukis adopted the Meitei language and script, while some Meiteis embraced aspects of Kuki dress and ornaments. Additionally, some Kukis converted to Hinduism or Sanamahism, the indigenous religion of the Meiteis, and some Meiteis adopted Christianity or Islam. Interfaith marriages between the two communities also contributed to a mixed population.

 

However, it's essential to acknowledge that conflicts and tensions also existed between the Meiteis and Kukis during the pre-colonial period. There were instances of wars and disputes over land, boundaries, taxes, and political representation. The different sub-groups within the Meitei and Kuki communities had varying ideologies, identities, and aspirations, making the society in Manipur diverse and complex.

According to renowned historian Gangmumei Kamei, in his meticulous work, the Meiteis and Kukis experienced turbulent relations during the 17th and 18th centuries. The Kuki tribes from the south and west of Manipur conducted frequent raids and invasions, leading to devastating consequences for the Meitei villages. These raids resulted in loss of life, plundering of resources, and the theft of cattle and crops. In an effort to maintain peace, the Meitei kings attempted to appease the Kukis by granting them land and titles. However, the situation remained tense, necessitating military campaigns by the Meitei kings to assert control over the hill areas. 

Jyotirmoy Roy, a noted scholar of Northeast India, further uncovers how the Meitei-Kuki relations deteriorated in the 19th century due to British intervention. The British annexed Manipur in 1891 after triumphing in the Anglo-Manipuri War against the Meitei king. This annexation paved the way for the British to manipulate the situation by encouraging Kuki migration from Burma to serve as a buffer against other hill tribes. The imposition of taxes by the British added fuel to the fire, fostering resentment and resistance within both the Meitei and Kuki communities. The discontentment culminated in the Kuki revolt against the British in 1917-1919, which was eventually quelled with the aid of some Meitei loyalists. Notably, the Meiteis themselves revolted against the British in 1939, known as the Nupi Lan or Women's War, led by courageous Meitei women who protested against economic exploitation and political oppression. 

Additionally, Thongkholal Haokip, a respected researcher of Kuki history and politics, emphasizes the role of religious conversions in influencing Meitei-Kuki relations during this epoch. While the Meiteis originally followed Sanamahism, an indigenous animist faith, the gradual influence of Bengali Brahmins in the 18th century led to the adoption of Hinduism among them. This transformation created a distinct cultural gap between the Meiteis and Kukis, who remained adherents of animism or converted to Christianity under the influence of American missionaries arriving in Manipur during the 19th century. The differences in religious beliefs further influenced the political aspirations of both communities. 

 The Meiteis and the Kukis exhibit distinct political aspirations and historical backgrounds, which have significantly influenced their relations with India after gaining independence. According to various sources, the Meiteis expressed a desire for greater autonomy from India, while the Kukis aimed either for integration within India or the establishment of a separate state from Manipur.

 The following information supports these claims:

The Meiteis, who predominantly follow Hinduism, have a noteworthy history of resistance against British colonial rule and Manipur's merger with India in 1949. Their perspectives have been shaped by the Bengal Renaissance and the Indian National Movement, further fueling their demand for increased political and cultural rights from the Indian government. They seek the restoration of their pre-merger status, advocate for the implementation of the Inner Line Permit system to safeguard their land and identity from external influences, and strive for their community's inclusion in the list of Scheduled Tribes to gain additional benefits and quotas. To further their cause, various insurgent groups like the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) and the People's Liberation Army (PLA) have been formed to fight for an independent Manipur.

On the other hand, the Kukis, who are predominantly Christian, have a different historical background, marked by migration from Burma and other regions in Northeast India. The British utilized the Kukis as a buffer between the Meiteis and the Nagas, who often conducted raids in the valley for resources. Unfortunately, the Kukis faced discrimination and violence from both the Meiteis and the Nagas, who laid claim to their ancestral lands. In response, the Kukis demanded either a separate state or district within Manipur or a larger homeland comprising parts of Manipur, Assam, Nagaland, and Mizoram to safeguard their rights and interests. To pursue their aspirations, various insurgent groups like the Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and the Kuki National Army (KNA) have emerged to advocate for their statehood demand.

In conclusion, the Meiteis and the Kukis have differing political aspirations and historical contexts that have significantly influenced their interactions with India following independence. The Meiteis' quest for autonomy and cultural rights contrasts with the Kukis' pursuit of a separate state or a larger homeland. These complexities have led both communities to form insurgent groups to advance their respective demands.

B) Race Science Misuse in Manipur :

The Shadow of Colonial Manipulation & How Census and Race Science Shaped Manipur's Ethnic Relations

The account provided sheds light on the misuse of census and race science by British colonial rulers in Manipur, with a focus on implanting Kukis and using them as tools to maintain control and create divisions among different communities. The utilization of these tools as part of the "divide and rule" policy had far-reaching consequences on the region's ethnic relations and continues to impact the social fabric of Manipur.

The British administration employed census and race science to manipulate and categorize the people of Manipur according to their own interests and agendas. Census data, a method of collecting statistical information on population and other demographics, was misused to favor the Kukis over the Meitei and Naga communities. The classification of the Meitei as a hill tribe in the census despite their historical ties to the valley was an example of this manipulation, denying them rightful benefits and representation. Moreover, the British inflated the population figures of the Kukis to exaggerate their dominance, thereby creating insecurity and fear among other communities.

Additionally, the concept of race science was utilized to create a hierarchical system of races, with the British positioning themselves as superior, the Meitei as more advanced, and the Kukis above the Nagas, whom they considered savage and backward. This divisive classification further fueled tensions and conflicts among the communities.

The British also strategically implanted Kukis in Manipur and used them as soldiers, laborers, and spies to further their interests in the region. This practice created a buffer zone between the Meitei valley and the Naga hills, where conflicts over land, resources, and political representation were frequent. By encouraging Kukis to migrate from neighboring areas, the British established a population that could serve their interests in this contested region.

The lasting impact of the colonial legacy is evident in Manipur's ethnic relations even after India's independence in 1947. The struggles for rights, recognition, and autonomy continue, and some communities have resorted to armed insurgency and violence against the Indian state and other ethnic groups. Artificial boundaries drawn by the British between Manipur and neighboring states and countries have further exacerbated confusion and conflict over land ownership and identity.

In conclusion, the misuse of census and race science by the British in Manipur had significant ramifications for the region's ethnic relations, leading to enduring tensions and conflicts. Recognizing and understanding this historical context is vital for fostering harmony and mutual understanding among the diverse communities in Manipur.

 C) Kukis : The British's Secret Weapon in Manipur's Divide and conquer Strategy 

The Kukis' arrival in Manipur can be understood as a colonial endeavor influenced and facilitated by the British colonial rulers. The British strategically used the Kukis as instruments to advance their interests not only in Manipur but also in other parts of Northeast India. The motives behind the British decision to settle the Kukis in Manipur were multifaceted:

1. Securing Control and Protecting Trade Routes:

 Following the Anglo-Manipur War in 1891, the British had annexed Manipur and faced resistance from the Meitei king and his supporters. To maintain control over the region and safeguard their trade routes from potential threats posed by the Burmese and the Chinese, the British recruited Kukis as soldiers, laborers, porters, and spies for their military campaigns in Manipur and the broader Northeast India.

2. Creating a Buffer Zone between Meitei and Naga Communities:

 The British sought to establish a buffer zone between the Meitei valley and the Naga hills to mitigate conflicts that frequently arose between these two communities over land, resources, and political representation. By encouraging Kukis to migrate from neighboring areas such as Myanmar and Bangladesh to Manipur, the British provided them with land grants and protection, thereby using them as a buffer zone between the Meitei and Naga communities

2)  Cultural Rifts : 
How Christian Conversion Divided Manipur's Communities 

Christian conversion had profound implications for the cultural dynamics in Manipur, contributing to divisions in various aspects:

1. Religious Difference and Conflicts:

 The conversion of the hill tribes to Christianity and the predominance of Hinduism among the Meiteis led to a religious divide. This difference often fueled tensions, conflicts, and violence over issues related to land, identity, and political rights.

 Christianity created a divide in Manipur because of the different philosophical views and historical experiences of the Meiteis and the Kukis, who are the main ethnic groups in the state. Here are some of the reasons:

• Christianity is a monotheistic religion, which means that it believes in one God who created and redeemed the world. Hinduism, which is the religion of most Meiteis, is a polytheistic religion, which means that it believes in many gods who are manifestations of the Supreme Self. Hinduism also believes in reincarnation, karma, and dharma, which are concepts that are not accepted by Christianity.
• Christianity came to Manipur through British missionaries in the 19th and 20th centuries, who converted many Kukis and Nagas to the faith. The Meiteis resisted the Christian influence and tried to preserve their Hindu identity and culture. The British also favored the Kukis and Nagas over the Meiteis in terms of administration and education, which created resentment and mistrust among the communities.
• Christianity also became a source of political mobilization and identity formation for the Kukis and Nagas, who demanded greater autonomy or even secession from Manipur. The Meiteis opposed these demands and wanted to maintain the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Manipur. The conflict between the Meiteis and the Kukis and Nagas escalated into violence and insurgency, which has lasted for decades.
• Christianity also introduced different moral values and social norms to the Kukis and Nagas, which clashed with those of the Meiteis. For example, Christians view marriage as a holy sacrament between one man and one woman, while Hindus allow polygamy in some cases. Christians also have different views on sin, confession, forgiveness, and salvation than Hindus.

2. Transformation of Traditional Customs:

 With the advent of Christianity, the traditional customs and practices of the hill tribes underwent significant changes. While some changes, such as the introduction of education and healthcare by missionaries, were beneficial, others had adverse effects on indigenous culture and language.

3. Influence on Political Aspirations:

 The adoption of Christianity also influenced the political movements and aspirations of the hill tribes, particularly the Nagas and the Kukis. Some sought autonomy or independence from Manipur and India, while others demanded greater representation and protection within the state. These aspirations often clashed with the interests of the Meiteis and the central government.

American missionaries played a pivotal role in intensifying Christian conversion and cultural division in Manipur. Their arrival in 1910 focused on evangelizing the Kuki-Chin-Mizo tribes in the southern region. Alongside religious propagation, the missionaries established essential institutions like schools, hospitals, churches, and printing presses. They contributed to translating the Bible into local languages, promoting literacy, and encouraging education among the tribes. Moreover, they lent support to tribal leaders and organizations in their struggle for self-determination and recognition.

The historical interplay between Christianity, cultural shifts, and political aspirations in Manipur is a complex and sensitive topic. It is crucial to understand and appreciate the multifaceted nature of this historical process to foster mutual understanding and harmony among different communities.

3) Navigating the Complexities : 

Demographic politics and Migration.............

Understanding the Violence in Manipur: Unraveling the Decades-old Ethnic Tensions

The recent violence in Manipur has drawn widespread attention and concern from across the country. However, to truly comprehend the root causes of this turmoil, we must delve into the decades-old ethnic tensions that have plagued the region. Manipur is a diverse state with various communities vying for their rights, representation, and autonomy. The clash between the Meiteis and the Kukis, along with other groups like the Nagas, has deep historical roots and multifaceted dynamics.

The Government's Eviction Drive and its Aftermath

In March 2023, the Manipur government initiated an eviction drive to clear illegal settlements in the reserve forest areas. These forest lands are crucial for wildlife conservation and environmental protection. The eviction drive impacted all communities, including the Meiteis and Muslims. However, it was the Kukis who vehemently protested against it, arguing that they have ancestral rights over these lands and accusing the government of favoring the Meiteis. This became the initial spark that ignited the fire of violence in the state.

Kukis' Opposition to Meiteis' Inclusion in Scheduled Tribes List

Another contentious issue arose when the Meiteis demanded inclusion in the Scheduled Tribes (STs) list, which would grant them special benefits and reservations. However, the Kukis opposed this move, fearing that it would diminish their political representation and economic opportunities. This further fueled the tensions between the two communities.

A Series of Clashes and Their Consequences

The situation escalated on May 3, 2023, when the Kukis organized a tribal solidarity march across ten districts of Manipur. This triggered counter-protests and blockades by the Meiteis, leading to violent clashes between the two groups. Tragically, these clashes resulted in loss of lives, injuries, displacements, and significant property damage. Moreover, disturbing reports of sexual violence perpetrated by Meitei men against Kuki women circulated on social media, provoking outrage across the entire nation.

Government's Ineffectiveness and Invocation of Article 355

Despite attempts to control the situation through curfews, internet shutdowns, and deployment of security forces, the government failed to restore peace. In response to the escalating crisis, the Centre invoked Article 355 of the Constitution, empowering it to take necessary steps to protect the state from external aggression or internal disturbances.

Underlying Ethnic Tensions and the Geographical Divide

The roots of the violence go much deeper, extending back to historical grievances and identity politics. Manipur is geographically divided, with the Meiteis predominantly residing in the valley, which comprises only 10% of the state's area but holds 60% of its population. The hills, on the other hand, are inhabited by the Kukis and Nagas and are governed by autonomous district councils under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, granting them special powers and privileges. The Meiteis have been seeking a similar status, while the Kukis and Nagas have been striving for greater autonomy or even secession from Manipur.

4) Manipur Violence:  Government's Failure to Contain the Crisis

The recent violence in Manipur has raised serious concerns about the government's ability to handle the situation effectively. As we dig into the web search results, several key reasons behind the government's failure to contain the violence come to light:

1. Failure to Anticipate and Prevent Escalation of Ethnic Tensions

The government's eviction drive in forest areas to clear illegal settlements resulted in a spark of ethnic tensions between the Meiteis and the Kukis. The government failed to anticipate the intensity of the backlash and the subsequent clashes that erupted due to this move. Additionally, the demand for Scheduled Tribes (ST) status by the Meiteis further exacerbated the existing grievances, leading to violence.

 

2. Ineffective Measures to Protect Lives and Properties

During the clashes, the government's measures to protect the lives and properties of both communities fell short. The high number of casualties, injuries, displacements, and destruction of property indicate a lack of adequate protection and crisis management. The failure to provide a secure environment for the citizens worsened the situation and eroded trust in the government's capabilities²³.

3. Neglecting to Address Root Causes of the Conflict

The Manipur violence has deep-rooted causes, including issues of land rights, identity politics, development disparities, and historical injustices. The government's failure to address these underlying factors allowed the tensions to fester and escalate¹⁴.

4. Lack of Justice for Victims of Violence and Human Rights Violations

One of the most troubling aspects of the violence was the occurrence of sexual violence by Meitei men against Kuki women. The government's inadequate response to these heinous acts, and its failure to ensure justice for the victims, created further outrage and added to the sense of insecurity among the affected communities¹³.

5. Insufficient Engagement in Dialogue and Reconciliation

To resolve such a complex and sensitive issue, dialogue and reconciliation are essential. However, the government did not engage effectively with all stakeholders, including civil society and the media, to restore peace and harmony in the state. This lack of inclusive communication hindered progress towards a lasting solution¹².

Criticism from Opposition Parties, Civil Society, and Military Veterans

The government's handling of the Manipur violence has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters. Opposition parties, civil society groups, and military veterans have accused the government of being indifferent, incompetent, or even complicit in the violence²⁵. This widespread criticism further underscores the seriousness of the situation.

Centre's Intervention and Limited Impact

In response to the escalating crisis, the Centre invoked Article 355 of the Constitution, empowering it to take necessary steps to protect the state from internal disturbances. However, despite deploying security forces and intervention, the violence continued to persist, revealing the complexity and gravity of the issue¹².

The Manipur violence presents a complex and challenging situation that demands a holistic and humane approach to resolution. Addressing the root causes, ensuring justice, and engaging in constructive dialogue are crucial steps towards lasting peace and reconciliation in the state.

Towards Reconciliation and Lasting Peace

To address the complex and sensitive issue of violence in Manipur, a comprehensive approach is required. The government must initiate dialogues with all stakeholders and address the underlying causes, such as land rights, identity politics, development disparities, and historical injustices. Justice must be served for the victims of violence and human rights violations.

Civil society and the media can play a crucial role in promoting peace and harmony among the diverse communities in Manipur. It is essential for the people to understand that violence will not resolve their problems; instead, it will only lead to further suffering and misery.

In conclusion, the violence in Manipur is a manifestation of deep-rooted ethnic tensions that demand immediate attention and thoughtful reconciliation efforts. Only through a united front and dialogue can the state of Manipur move towards lasting peace and progress.

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