Ground report: Uneasy calm in Manipur as communities rebuild post ethnic violence

Imphal,UPDATED: Sep 13, 2025 22:23 IST

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Manipur has brought a sense of relief to a state scarred by over two years of ethnic conflict. The violence that erupted in May 2023, leaving deep divisions between the Meitei community in the valley and the Kuki-Zo tribals in the hills, has now subsided.

Gun battles have stopped, bunkers lie abandoned, and life is slowly resuming and getting up on its feet. Yet, beneath the calm, the scars of division linger.

In Churachandpur, one of the districts worst-affected by ethnic violence, Modi laid the foundation of projects worth Rs 7,000 crore on Saturday.

Locals welcomed him with hopes that his outreach would bring healing to the fractured state.

“There is no firing, there is peace. That’s why we are here to welcome the Prime Minister,” said Linda Kim, a resident of the district. “We want peace. No one wants to fight forever. Conflict is over, but education and the economy are in crisis.”

The violence of 2023 resulted in over 200 deaths and forced thousands into relief camps, many of whom remain displaced.

Villages were destroyed, and residents fled across districts for safety. Bishnupur district continues to function as a buffer zone, heavily guarded by security forces. Neither community dares to cross into each other’s territory.

The divide has left residents grappling with everyday challenges. Even for emergencies, travel remains restricted.

“If we have to go to Delhi for higher education or medical treatment, we cannot pass through Imphal. Instead, we take a 13-14 hour journey to Aizawl to catch a flight,” said Yamthang, a Kuki woman from Churachandpur. “It is expensive and time consuming, but we have no choice.”

While the highway connecting Imphal to Churachandpur is open for essential supplies, crossing the buffer zones requires multiple checks by security forces.

Locals say fear and mistrust still dominate interactions between the two communities.

In Churachandpur town, residents have built a memorial for those who lost their lives during the conflict.

“The bunkers are still there, but our boys have returned to their studies and work,” said Linda, who hopes the Prime Minister’s visit signals a long-term return to normalcy.

Yet, concerns about governance and development persist. “A separate administration for hill districts is the only long-term solution,” said Michael, another resident.

“As long as the valley controls finances and administration, the hills will remain neglected. Employment, education, and basic development will continue to suffer.”

Internally displaced persons (IDPs) from other parts of Manipur also voiced their struggles during Modi’s visit.

At the Akampat Relief Camp in Imphal East, where families have been staying for two years, many shared their loss of homes and livelihoods.

Among them was Chingtham Lembi Devi, a BSc student from Moreh, and Sadananda, a retired Indian Navy officer who lost his house and shop.

They urged PM Modi to provide government jobs for affected families and guarantee security so that they can return and rebuild.

While Modi emphasised peace and reconciliation, the underlying mistrust between the valley and the hills remains unresolved.

The silence of guns has given people a chance to breathe, but the road to healing and unity in Manipur is still long and uncertain.

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