Manipur, a tiny state in India's northeast, continues to grapple with a resurgence of violence between the Kuki and Meitei communities.

The clashes, which began on May 3 following a Tribal Solidarity March, have resulted in over 100 deaths and widespread arson and shootings. Internet services remain suspended to curb the spread of rumors and hate messages.
Observers on the ground reveal a troubling situation, with reports suggesting an "exchange of population" between the Meitei-dominated valley and the Kuki-dominated hills. The state, known for its history of insurgency, is witnessing an exodus of both communities, demanding action against each other.

According to local experts, Manipuri society has seen a revival of “Meiteism”: a concerted effort to revive Meitei identity focusing on the Hindu religion. The movement foremost establishes Meiteis as the original inhabitants of Manipur. Kukis, meanwhile, have adhered to more Muslim religious leanings.

With approximately 10,000 Army and Assam Rifles jawans deployed, security forces are striving to maintain control and protect essential goods and individuals amidst sporadic incidents. While the Manipur Police claims the situation is tense but under control, the state remains in the grips of unprecedented tensions, with the author of this clip from June 26 describing it as on the "brink of civil war."

After large-scale clashes from May 3rd Manipur has seen a resurgence of violence in the form of arson and shootings in areas between the Kuki-dominated hills and the Meitei-dominated valley. Fresh incidents of violence have been reported from Manipur the tiny state in India’s northeast. Over 100 persons are reported to have been killed in the ethnic violence since May 3 following a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ against the Meitei community's demand for a Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Internet services remain suspended since the violence started to stop the spread of rumors and hate messages. However, ground reports suggest an unprecedented situation in the state with a past history of insurgency.

After incidents of violence involving the Meitei and Kuki communities, observers say an “exchange of population” has taken place in the state. It is difficult to find a Meitei in tribal-dominated hill regions. Likewise, the majority of tribals have fled the Imphal Valley dominated by Meitis. Both sides are demanding action against each other and those who could leave the state have left.

Around 10,000 Army and Assam Rifles jawans are currently deployed and security forces are conducting aerial surveillance. The security forces are coordinating to protect people and vehicles carrying essential goods. Manipur Police on Saturday said the situation here is tense, but under control with some sporadic incidents in some districts but normal in most districts.