The impact of the ethnic violence that erupted in Manipur two years ago continues to reverberate through the lives of thousands of displaced people, with many still living in overcrowded camps, longing to return home.
G Kipgen, a former business owner from Imphal, is among the countless victims. “I used to run a successful coaching institute in Imphal. It’s all gone now. With no source of income and three children, I am worried about their future. I can’t focus on anything. What is even more concerning is that there is no sign of how things will get better,” he said, his voice tinged with despair.
The violence, which broke out on May 3, 2023, between the Meitei and the Kuki-Zo communities, has led to the loss of over 260 lives, left 1,500 people injured, and displaced more than 70,000 individuals. Despite efforts to bring the situation under control, including the sacking of the controversial Chief Minister N Biren Singh and the imposition of President’s rule in February, peace remains elusive.
"My greatest worry is the future of my two little children," said Abung, a Meitei IDP from Churachandpur district. He is currently living in a prefabricated home in Bishnupur district. "Earlier, I had a thriving grocery business. While living in a prefabricated home is better than staying in a relief camp, it doesn’t compare to the freedom and happiness of living in one’s own home,” he added.
As these displaced families continue to rebuild their lives, the conflict shows no signs of abating. Civil society groups on both sides of the divide remain entrenched in their demands: hill-based Kukis are calling for a separate administration, while the Meiteis, the majority in Imphal valley, demand the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and the deportation of what they deem to be illegal immigrants.
Despite measures from the central and state authorities to address violence and improve the lives of the affected, frustration is growing among the general populace. "The most problematic and worrisome aspect of this two-year-long conflict is that armed groups and their associates have taken control of the respective communities," a central security agency official revealed. "They are pushing their agenda, ignoring the suffering of ordinary people, particularly the IDPs."
While efforts have been made to help the displaced regain some stability through skill development and training programmes, these initiatives have done little to alleviate the profound emotional toll that the conflict has caused.
Abenao Devi, another IDP, explained her struggles. “In the first few months after the violence broke out, there was significant community support, and provisions arrived on time. But gradually, we’ve been forgotten. Often, we have to depend on the mercy of others for basic needs. It is humiliating,” she said.
Amidst growing insecurity and psychological distress, many IDPs are forced to take up odd jobs they never imagined doing. Meanwhile, tensions persist as armed outfits, revived and emboldened, continue to exert control over various areas, further complicating any prospects of returning to normalcy.
The fragile peace continues to hold, but for thousands of displaced families in Manipur, it remains a distant hope.
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