MANIPUR

While May 3 of 2023 marked the start of the current phase of unrest in Manipur, the Northeast State has seen several sustained periods of insurgency and instability centred around ethnic identities and separatist demands.

The Meiteis in the plains, and the Naga and Kuki-Zo communities in the hills, have much in common; but ethnic affinities and religious affiliations have reinforced tribal bonds and bred insularity.

Although the deeply divisive government of Biren Singh is no longer at the helm, Manipur is still far from witnessing any semblance of normalcy.

The visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his first after the outbreak of the 2023 violence, has renewed hope that a peaceful solution  to the grievances of the different groups is not far.