Imphal: The ethnic divide in Manipur between the Meitei-majority valley and Kuki-dominated hill areas has once again highlighted the urgent need for sustained government intervention. Following the Prime Minister’s recent visit to the state, community leaders and civil society organizations have emphasized that while political appeals for peace are welcome, a long-term solution requires structured dialogue, inclusive policies, and actionable government initiatives that address the root causes of conflict.
The ethnic violence, which erupted in May 2023, has had devastating consequences for the region. Reports indicate over 260 lives have been lost, and more than 60,000 people have been displaced from their homes. Entire villages in the hills and valleys have been affected, leaving communities struggling with inadequate shelter, limited access to healthcare, and disrupted livelihoods. While the central government announced a Rs 3,700 crore development package aimed at reconstruction and rehabilitation, many local leaders argue that financial support alone cannot heal the deep social and cultural fissures that fuel tension between the communities.
Civil society voices stress that political solutions and sustained dialogue are essential to bridge the gap between the hills and the valley. Meitei and Kuki leaders alike have expressed the need for a government-led peace process, inclusive of all stakeholders, which can provide a platform for grievances to be addressed and trust to be rebuilt. Advocates argue that without structural mechanisms for dialogue, reconciliation efforts risk being superficial and temporary, unable to prevent future flare-ups of violence.
Experts and analysts point out that infrastructure development, education, and equitable representation in governance must accompany immediate relief measures to achieve lasting peace. They also emphasize that social cohesion initiatives, such as community programs and joint development projects, can help foster understanding and cooperation across ethnic lines. Observers note that the Manipur situation reflects a broader challenge in northeastern India, where historical marginalization and socio-political disparities often intersect to create regional instability.
The growing chorus for government intervention underscores a shared recognition that peace in Manipur is not only vital for the well-being of its residents but also for the stability of the region as a whole. With renewed attention from the central government and the support of local leaders, there is cautious optimism that a structured, long-term approach could finally bridge the hills-valley divide, restore normalcy, and lay the groundwork for inclusive development.