Socio-Political study on the Causes, Evolution and Subsequent Effects of Manipur’s Communal Clashes

Abstract

This paper focuses on the Manipur clashes began in Early May, 2023. The following clashes became much more brutal between Meiteis and Kukis. Superficially, these large-scale communal clashes were caused by the tribal status approval of Meiteis from High Court of Manipur. Insightfully, the clashes are rooted in the “Reservation” and Hindu nationalism. Both catalyzed conflicts by the BJP's increasingly populist mobilization. The neglect and omission of BJP-ruled central and state governments in the early stages of clashes are worsening the situation. The opposition alliance recently launched “No-confidence vote” against Modi in Lok Sabha, arguing that his silence on brutal violence reflected BJP-led central and state governments had lost the impartiality. Only by ending riots instantly, restoring social order, creating channels for peace talks and promoting economic development could deputes be resolved, mutual trust rebuilt and peaceful co-habituated be achieved.