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Manipur, the scenic northeastern Indian state known for its rich cultural heritage and biodiversity, has been torn apart by ethnic conflict for three years. Since the violence erupted on May 3, 2023, primarily between the Meitei community in the Imphal Valley and the Kuki-Zo tribes in the surrounding hills, the state has witnessed unprecedented levels of death, displacement, and division. As of April 2026, Manipur remains deeply fractured, with fragile peace repeatedly disrupted by fresh clashes despite political changes and security interventions.
### Roots of the Conflict
The violence did not emerge in isolation. Long-standing tensions over land, resources, and political representation provided the fertile ground. The Meiteis, who constitute about 53% of the population and are predominantly Hindu, largely inhabit the fertile valley areas. In contrast, the Kuki-Zo tribes, mostly Christian, reside in the hill districts that surround the valley. Disputes over land rights, forest areas, and access to government jobs and quotas have simmered for decades.
A key trigger in 2023 was the Manipur High Court’s directive—later stayed by the Supreme Court—suggesting the state government consider granting Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the Meiteis. Kuki-Zo groups feared this would dilute their protections and affirmative action benefits in the hills. A “Tribal Solidarity March” on May 3, 2023, quickly descended into widespread violence, with attacks on villages, arson, and targeted killings spreading rapidly across districts.
Other contributing factors include alleged influxes of migrants and refugees linked to instability in neighbouring Myanmar, concerns over drug trafficking routes often described as “narco-terrorism,” and overlapping insurgent activities in the region. Mutual distrust between communities, exacerbated by political polarisation, turned localised grievances into a full-blown ethnic confrontation.
### Scale of Devastation
In the three years since the conflict began, the human and material cost has been staggering. Official figures report over 217 to 260 deaths, though independent estimates suggest the toll could be higher. Thousands of homes were burned, with reports indicating nearly 8,000 permanent structures destroyed in the initial waves of violence. Places of worship, schools, and public infrastructure also suffered extensive damage.
Displacement remains a critical issue. Around 58,000 to 60,000 people continue to live in relief camps, largely segregated along ethnic lines. Families have been uprooted for years, with children missing out on education and livelihoods shattered. The economy of the state has taken a severe hit, and normal civilian life—marked by free movement, inter-community interactions, and routine governance—has become rare.
### Timeline of Turmoil
The first few months of 2023 saw the most intense fighting, claiming the majority of lives. By late 2023 and into 2024, the conflict settled into a pattern of sporadic clashes, ambushes, and factional violence, including tensions between Kuki and Naga groups. President’s Rule was imposed amid governance breakdowns and later lifted on February 4, 2026. BJP leader Yumnam Khemchand Singh was sworn in as Chief Minister, raising hopes for renewed dialogue.
A significant development came on March 21, 2026, when Meitei and Kuki-Zo representatives held their first direct peace meeting in years. However, optimism was short-lived. On April 7, 2026, a bomb or rocket attack in Bishnupur district’s Tronglaobi area killed two young Meitei children aged five and six, injuring their mother. The incident triggered fresh protests, curfews, internet suspensions in valley areas, and additional fatalities, including those from security operations and retaliatory actions.
### Current Realities and Challenges
As April 2026 draws to a close, Manipur lives in a state of uneasy calm punctuated by tension. The valley and hill areas function almost as separate entities, with buffer zones manned by central security forces. Protests, bandhs, and accusations against security personnel continue. Issues such as the review of Suspension of Operations agreements with militant groups, resettlement of displaced persons, and alleged cross-border influences remain unresolved.
The new Chief Minister has emphasised dialogue and rehabilitation, while the central government has provided financial assistance for relief efforts. Yet, deep-seated mistrust, the presence of armed elements on both sides, and the complex geography of the state make lasting reconciliation difficult.
### A Path Forward?
Three years of violence have turned Manipur into a socially “broken” state, even as administrative structures persist. Healing requires more than security operations and relief funds. Addressing core issues—equitable land and resource management, political representation, inclusive development, and delivery of justice for victims from all communities—is essential.
Sustained, neutral, and inclusive dialogue remains the only viable route to peace. Without genuine efforts to rebuild trust and bridge divides, the risk of further escalation will linger. For the people of Manipur, the hope is that the coming months bring not just temporary calm, but a genuine beginning of reconciliation in a state that has endured far too much pain.
