Global Manipur Federation Established to Drive Peace and Solidarity in Manipur
- 04th June 2023 -

*

The recent wave of violent protests, culminating in orchestrated violence in Manipur during the early summer of 2023, touches the hearts and minds of Manipuris across the globe. The profound anguish and growing sentiments experienced by our fellow Manipuris on the ground evoke a shared sense of empathy within us.

In response, non-resident Indians (NRIs) from Manipur have united in solidarity, forming the Global Manipur Federation (GMF). Spanning continents from Africa to Europe, GMF is committed to transforming the conflict in Manipur. With our humble capacities, we plan to take part in peace-building, crisis management, and related activities, striving for a better future.

The untoward events have affected thousands of people, including children, women, and the elderly. Lives have been lost, houses destroyed, and enormous property ruined. People are taking refuge like true refugees in their own homeland. The sentiments and trauma of Manipuris need to be healed.

These incidents have unfolded, loosely pitting two communities, namely the Kukis and the Meiteis, against each other. Irresponsible media and biased commentators have distorted the tragedy, portraying it through a religious lens and disseminating false narratives without comprehending the underlying context and fundamental issues of the conflict. This perspective, coupled with various rumours, has further exacerbated the situation and hindered meaningful dialogue.

In fact, violent incidents have occurred between the Kukis, assisted by militant groups who are party to a cease-fire agreement with the Government of India, termed Suspension of Operation (SoO), and the Meiteis. Now, the crisis has turned into a conflict between the Kuki-Chin militants and defenceless Meitei villagers. Concerns have been raised regarding the alleged activities of the Assam Rifles, which are claimed to have aided the Kuki-Chin militants in committing crimes.

Another extremely disturbing case involves the Rapid Action Force (RAF), a principal segment of the central government military deployed in Manipur for peacekeeping, found instigating further communal violence. On the evening of 27 May, at New Chekon, Imphal East, three RAF personnel set a shop on fire. The shop was run by a Muslim individual but owned by a Kabui Naga (https://avbc.me/FQbda2Mx).

On June 2, a recent incident unfolded where 37 Assam Rifles personnel blocked the main gate of Sugnu Police Station and SDPO office using three 'Casspir vehicles'. Videos capturing this event have been circulating on social media. The actions of the central military forces in this instance have raised concerns as it may have contributed to the escalation of violence in Manipur.

Earnestly, the Global Manipur Federation draws the attention of New Delhi, other stakeholders, related international and regional bodies, and the media to act adequately and promptly to de-escalate the violence and manage the crisis.

We condemn the loss of lives and property of people of all communities. Through a collective contribution of concerns and resources, GMF would work to decrease inter-community distrust and tensions.

We provide a commitment to exert a constructive influence on the state of affairs in Manipur while fostering a sense of solidarity among Manipuris worldwide. It is our sincere hope that such endeavours yield productive results in transforming the conflict.

Media Team
JN Lai
Global Manipur Federation
Standing in Solidarity to Transform Manipur