Essentials of ethnic clashes : Origins and insights

Birendra Laishram
The Home Minister described the ongoing violence in Manipur as “an ethnic clash” rooted in long-standing issues, reflecting the way of ethnic legacy between Hindus and Muslims in India. This characterisation appears driven by a hidden agenda prioritising geopolitical interests over genuine humanitarian concern, a sentiment echoed by people of all ages of- even innocents and elites of the State.
Every-day we are fed with the narratives of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and other involved agencies pointing out that external forces are contributing to this wave of violence. It is essential to set aside the remarks made by the current leaders of the Indian armed forces at this moment, as they are bound by protocol and cannot express their viewpoints freely without prior approval from higher authorities. Instead, we should consider the insights and opinions of retired members of the Indian armed forces, as their statements tend to be more reliable and provide a clearer picture of the situation arrived from their long experiences. When we consolidate the various expla- nations and viewpoints reported from different sources, including those from the Home Minister, we can conclude that the violence in Manipur primarily stems from ethnic conflicts between the Meitei and Kuki communities. These tensions have been exacerbated by armed Kuki factions operating from across the borders in Myanmar and Bangladesh, who collaborate with militant Kuki groups active within the State of Manipur itself.
It is totally wrong narrative that the violence initially erupted when the Meitei community made a request for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, which was met with strong opposition from the Kuki community. The demand and the objection is to be done through the Govt. Attacking civi- lians is not the right approach.
This widespread misconception suggesting that the recent violence can be attributed to the order issued by the Manipur High Court is devilishly mischievous. However, it is important to clarify that the High Court merely instructed the State Government to prepare and send recommendations to the Government of India. It raises an important question : Why do people blame the High Court order ? The Court order is clear enough for anyone with ordinary understanding.
To determine the cause of the violence, we must consider the actions taken by the State Government aimed at addressing various issues, such as curbing poppy cultivation, preventing illegal immigration, safeguarding forest lands, and combating drug trafficking.
These initiatives were set in motion prior to the High Court’s order and are significant factors in understanding the dynamics of the current unrest. Why would these proactive steps taken by the Chief Minister of Manipur not incite anger among the affected communities ? It appears that these actions have played a crucial role in triggering the current violence in Mani-pur, indicating that the underlying causes are more complex and multifaceted than they may initially seem. What causes widespread ethnic clashes glo- bally, and are these situations included or excluded in Manipur type of ethnicity ?
Ethnic clashes represent intricate phenomena influenced by a combination of political, economic, social, and cultural factors that intertwine in complex ways, which can be classified into several key categories:
Political Factor : The marginalization or under representation of specific ethnic groups often leads to significant conflicts surrounding issues of power and governance. When certain communities feel ex- cluded from political processes or denied a voice in decision-making, tensions can escalate, resulting in confrontations and cla-shes. In Manipur State of Indian Union such inclusion or exclusion is Constitutionally done as per provisions. No particular community has such right.
Economic Disparity : Economic inequalities significantly contribute to resentment among ethnic groups. Uneven distribution of resources and perceptions of unfair advantage can escalate competition, leading to conflict. In democratic India, representatives propose budgets for resource creation at the district level, as there is no provision for community-specific budgeting by the Parliament or State Assembly.
Social and cultural difference :  The existence of distinct variations in language, religion, traditions, and customs can create divisions that lead to misunderstandings and conflicts between groups. These differences can manifest in various ways, often exacerbating tensions and reinforcing stereotypes that fuel animosity. But in Manipur a State of a secular country like India, such social and cultural difference is totally absent.
Historical grievances : Long-standing conflicts and perceived injustices rooted in history can perpetuate ethnic tensions over generations. Historical narratives often shape the identities of communities and can lead to a cycle of resentment and retaliation that is difficult to break. In Manipur, there is no history of conflict between the Kuki community and the Meitei community.
From this perspective, the conflict between Meitei and Kuki should not be labelled an ethnic clash but rather a communal riot. The root of the clashes lies in territorial claims by the Kuki community.
In contrast, the Meitei community has not sought separate territory or claimed any hill areas. The Meitei community seeks to protect people living in the 10 per cent of Manipur’s land where they are at risk of extinction.
The Kuki militants are supporting the political party in power vice versa for win-win leading to present devastating consequences, including loss of life, mass displacement, and long-term instability in affected regions.
As of December 2024, the conflict has resulted in over 250 deaths, many persons missing and significant displacement of 60,000 individuals and families. The response to stop the escalating violence and the Govt’s attempting to restore peace through various measures, including deploying security forces, enforcing cur- fews, and suspending in-ternet services are just redundant.
Achieving a lasting solution to this conflict will necessitate time, patience, and cooperation from all parties involved, as well as a willingness to engage in dialogue and reconciliation without the condition for disintegration of the State.