Manipur ethnic conflict deepens amid village volunteer disputes

The Indian state of Manipur continues to experience renewed ethnic violence, now between Naga and Kuki communities, after earlier Meitei‑Kuki clashes. Weapons looted from police armouries during the 2023 conflict remain in the hands of armed groups; many village volunteers are reported to carry licensed firearms, but allegations link some Suspension of Operations (SoO) cadres to automatic weapons. The state government installed under Chief Minister Y. Khemchand Singh in February 2026, with deputy chief ministers from Naga and Kuki groups, promised peace, yet the SoO agreement renewed in September 2025 under revised ground rules has drawn criticism.

Analysts point to longstanding grievances over citizenship and immigration, noting that illegal influx from Myanmar grew from 50‑60 000 in 1962 to about 450 000 by 2010. The intricate tribal composition—36 recognised tribes plus Meitei and Meitei Pangal—has fueled demands for greater autonomy and political representation, with upcoming census‑driven delimitation slated after 2027. The conflict raises questions about the effectiveness of the SoO framework and the security forces’ ability to curb armed incidents.