Manipur authorities have declared a 72-hour statewide curfew and complete internet shutdown following violent ethnic clashes between Meitei and Kuki communities. The restrictions come after weekend riots left 12 dead and over 100 injured across the northeastern state, with mobs burning homes and government buildings in capital Imphal.
Army and paramilitary units now patrol deserted streets in Manipur’s worst unrest since 2020. The internet suspension, ordered under India’s controversial Telecom Suspension Rules, aims to prevent “inflammatory content” from fueling violence but also hinders crisis reporting. Local journalists describe a complete information vacuum as cellular networks remain jammed.
Tensions erupted over demands from the majority Meitei community for Scheduled Tribe status, which the minority Kuki tribe fears would threaten their land rights. Observers have traced the current hostilities to long-standing competition over resources and political representation in the border state, which shares a sensitive frontier with Myanmar.
Government Response and Criticism
Prime Minister Modi’s office has deployed 5,000 additional troops while facing criticism for delayed intervention. Opposition leaders accuse the ruling BJP of mishandling ethnic tensions for political gain, citing similar unrest before state elections. The Supreme Court will hear petitions challenging the internet ban’s proportionality next week.
Aid groups also reported that over 8,000 displaced civilians sheltering in military camps without reliable food or medicine supplies. The internet blackout has complicated relief efforts, with doctors unable to coordinate emergency medical responses. International observers warn the situation mirrors 2020’s deadly Delhi riots if left unresolved.
A Short Historical Context of the Manipur Unrest
The volatile state has witnessed over 50 ethnic clashes since 1990, often tied to its complex tribal hierarchies and border security issues. Current violence echoes 2015 protests that similarly prompted internet suspensions, raising concerns about recurring cycles of repression and unrest.
